By Andi Anderson
Rep. Zach Nunn from Iowa introduced bipartisan bills aimed at revolutionizing farm conservation methods to benefit Iowa's agricultural sector. The proposed Conservation Innovation Act aims to establish an Office of Conservation Innovation within the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
The envisioned office intends to incorporate new technology into existing conservation standards and develop novel practices. Rep. Nunn emphasized the significance of providing farmers with tools and resources to excel, acknowledging their crucial role as land stewards. He stressed the importance of placing Iowa's producers at the forefront of pioneering conservation practices.
Presently, nearly 500,000 farmers collaborate with NRCS on conservation strategies. However, existing practices lack substantial input from farmers and often entail prolonged implementation processes originating from state committee recommendations.
Another bill, the Streamlining Conservation Practice Standards Act, spearheaded by Rep. Abigail Spanberger from Virginia and co-led by Rep. Nunn, advocates for increased public engagement. The proposed act mandates the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to establish a framework for public input during the review of conservation practices, ensuring reviews every five years, and expediting the process for new standards.
Rep. Nunn's bipartisan efforts seek to empower farmers and promote an inclusive approach to conservation, ensuring a sustainable future for Iowa's agriculture while enhancing environmental stewardship.
Photo Credit: USDA
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy