By Andi Anderson
Iowa farmers are receiving much-needed financial support to implement agroforestry practices as part of the USDA’s Expanding Agroforestry Project.
This initiative is part of the larger Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities, which allocated $60 million to help farmers transition to climate-friendly farming.
Led by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the project aims to plant 30,000 acres of agroforestry across 30 states. This effort includes providing technical assistance and funding to farmers for planting trees, shrubs, and other vegetation on their land.
Agroforestry enhances carbon capture, biodiversity, and offers additional benefits like windbreaks, improved soil health, and new market opportunities for crops.
Agroforestry systems can capture 2-5 metric tons of carbon dioxide per acre annually, making them a key tool in fighting climate change.
The project’s goal is to attract at least 200 farmers, including underserved producers, to adopt sustainable practices like alley cropping, silvopasture, and windbreaks.
Farmers will receive incentive payments and technical support from regional experts to help develop agroforestry plans. Applications for the program have already exceeded expectations, with farmers across 21 states applying for assistance.
With a focus on sustainability and long-term growth, this project is expected to boost both the environment and farmers' livelihoods by creating new market opportunities for agroforestry commodities.
Interested farmers can apply for funding through The Nature Conservancy’s website, with application deadlines in late summer.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Iowa, Sustainable Agriculture