Apply now for USDAs $60M agroforestry boost

By Andi Anderson

In 2022, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) gave a significant boost to agroforestry initiatives by allocating $60 million as part of the Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities program.

This funding aims to help farmers transition toward more climate-friendly farming practices through the Expanding Agroforestry Project, led by The Nature Conservancy (TNC). The project provides technical assistance and financial support to farmers, with the goal of planting 30,000 acres of agroforestry across the U.S.

During the first application cycle, over 200 farmers from 21 states applied to the program, accounting for about 20% of the project’s agroforestry acreage target. Although the process of distributing funds and providing training takes time, incentive payments are expected to be disbursed by the summer and fall of 2024

The Expanding Agroforestry Project is part of a larger USDA effort to support climate-smart farming while benefiting landowners. Agroforestry practices, such as alley cropping, silvopasture, and windbreaks, capture 2–5 metric tons of carbon dioxide per acre per year. These practices not only help combat climate change but also provide additional benefits, such as improving biodiversity and supporting pollinators.

As part of the initiative, TNC is processing $36 million in incentive payments for enrolled producers. The remaining $24 million will support partner organizations, expand staff capacity, and enhance monitoring and reporting activities.

TNC has also launched an outreach campaign to attract farmers to the program, with a goal of enrolling at least 200 farmers, 50 of whom are underserved producers.

“Producers typically want to hear directly from other producers, so we encourage farmer-to-farmer networks to help drive adoption whenever possible,” said Audrey Epp Schmidt, TNC’s agroforestry program manager.

Farmers who join the program receive support to develop an agroforestry plan tailored to their land, and the project subsidizes the cost of tree planting.

The next application deadline is expected in late summer, and farmers can learn more on TNC’s website. With the program’s support, agroforestry practices are gaining traction, helping farmers improve sustainability and adapt to climate change.

Photo Credit: usda