Farm Bureau Supports New Growing Climate Solutions Act

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the re-introduction of the Growing Climate Solutions Act.

“AFBF welcomes the introduction of the Growing Climate Solutions Act, which builds on the strong foundation of environmental stewardship in American agriculture by providing more clarity and guidance for farmers and ranchers as they explore or expand participation in carbon markets.

“This bill is evidence lawmakers can come together in a bipartisan manner to find solutions to environmental challenges while respecting the role of farmers and ranchers as they feed families around the globe. I commend Sens. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.) for working with Ranking Member John Boozman (R-Ark.) to introduce an improved Growing Climate Solutions Act.

“AFBF will continue to work with lawmakers, directly and through the Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance that we co-founded, to advance policies and programs that are science-based, voluntary and market-driven.”

Highlights of the Growing Climate Solutions Act:

• Creates an online “One-Stop Shop” for farmers, ranchers and foresters interested in carbon markets to help them get their foot in the door.
• Establishes a USDA Certification for private parties that farmers work with to generate and ultimately sell their carbon credits.
• Commits to including farmers and other climate stakeholders on USDA’s Advisory Council.