July 20, 2015
USDA: Most Farmers Invest in Conservation
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced that more than 98 percent of farmers and ranchers across the nation have implemented verified natural resource conservation strategies.
Conservation measures on these properties will protect an additional 1.5 million acres of highly erodible land and 1.1 million acres of wetlands. As a result, farm families will further reduce soil losses due to erosion, enhance water quality and increase wildlife habitat.
Acting under the 2014 Farm Bill, the agency completed a process of verification in early July.
Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said the overwhelmingly positive effort by agricultural producers will make them eligible for crop insurance programs. “By investing in both American farmers and the health of our productive lands, we are ensuring future generations have access to fertile soil, healthy food supplies and a strong rural economy,” Vilsack noted.