Congress takes up a new Farm Bill every five years. It’s an opportunity to shape the future of American farming and food policy and it’s up for renewal this year.
Regenerative Agriculture is a relatively new term for a concept as old as farming – establishing good soil and sound farming practices. A global pandemic and extremes of weather are creating new incentives for farmers to try new ways to enhance soil and sustain a reliable water supply. For new farmers, especially, learning from others is an essential resource. A commitment to regenerative practices takes time and capital. Many are finding that the investment in resilience is worth it.
The United States is on track to lose at least 18 million acres of farmland and ranchland by 2040, threatening not only our long-term food supply, but also the environment. American Farmland Trust has been tracking the loss of farmland and ranchland since its founding in 1980.