Bill > HR5902

This bill aims to promote innovative soil health practices through several amendments to existing agricultural conservation programs. The bill updates definitions and expands the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) to include greenhouse gas emissions reduction planning, broader resource concerns, and support for perennial production systems like agroforestry. It introduces new provisions for contract renewals that encourage farmers to continuously improve conservation practices, with an emphasis on soil health, carbon sequestration, and addressing environmental challenges. The bill also establishes a National Agroforestry Research, Development, and Demonstration Center and at least three regional agroforestry centers to support research, technical assistance, and technology development for sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, the bill broadens funding and administrative provisions to include support for individual farmers, Tribal entities, and various planning activities such as soil health planning, organic transition planning, and integrated pest management. The overarching goal is to incentivize and support agricultural practices that improve soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance biodiversity, and create more resilient farming systems.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5902/all-info