Bill > HR5875

This bill (the Converting Our Waste Sustainably or COWS Act of 2025) aims to expand agricultural conservation programs focused on manure management and composting, particularly for dairy and livestock operations. The bill introduces new definitions and provisions to support alternative manure management practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve soil health, and provide financial incentives for farmers. Specifically, it establishes a comprehensive framework for the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide payments, technical assistance, and support for farmers implementing innovative waste management techniques, with a priority on small and mid-sized operations. The bill defines new terms like "composting practice" and "alternative manure management practices", which include methods such as pasture-based management, composting barns, manure separation technologies, and systems that avoid wet handling of waste. The legislation prioritizes applications that maximize carbon sequestration, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve environmental and public health, with special consideration for beginning farmers, limited resource farmers, and socially disadvantaged farmers. The bill also requires the Secretary of Agriculture to develop new conservation practice standards, provide advanced payments of up to 100% for eligible practices, and establish procedures for joint applications from groups of producers.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5875/all-info