By Scout Nelson
To combat climate change and enhance sustainability, the Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships are offering funding opportunities for small farms in Northeast and West Central Minnesota, as well as local Tribal entities. These grants aim to support on-farm initiatives that contribute to climate mitigation, adaptation, and regenerative agriculture.
The initiative targets small farms that are ready to implement projects enhancing their ability to withstand climate-related challenges. The funding will support a variety of climate-friendly agricultural practices.
These include the integration of perennials, the adoption of composting techniques, organic no-till farming, agroforestry, and the creation of wildlife corridors. Additionally, projects may involve the replacement of fossil fuels with animal or electric power and other clean energy alternatives.
Another critical focus is carbon sequestration, which can be achieved through practices like crop rotation, the use of biochar, legume cover cropping and enhancing soil organic matter. These methods not only help in reducing the carbon footprint of farming operations but also improve the overall health of farm soil.
The grants will prioritize shovel-ready projects that can be completed by the end of December 2025. To qualify, applicants must be located in one of the designated counties or Tribal regions. These include the Northeast counties of Koochiching, Itasca, Aitkin, Pine, Carlton, St. Louis, Lake, and Cook, along with the Grand Portage, Fond du Lac, and Bois Forte Tribal bands.
In West Central Minnesota, eligible applicants include the White Earth Nation and Upper Sioux Community, as well as the counties of Ottertail, Becker, Grant, Douglas, Stevens, Pope, Big Stone, Swift, Lac qui Parle, Chippewa, and Yellow Medicine.
Applications are open until February 14, 2025, with the grant recipients to be announced in early March. This funding represents a significant step towards building more resilient and ecologically sustainable farming practices in Minnesota, aiming to create a healthier, more sustainable future for agriculture in the region.
Interested parties are encouraged to review the full eligibility criteria and apply through the designated regional partnerships to take part in this transformative initiative.
Photo Credits:gettyimages-tlillico
Categories: Minnesota, General, Government & Policy, Weather