Minnesota leading climate-smart agriculture

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is recognizing the efforts of farmers, ag businesses, and other stakeholders in promoting climate-smart agricultural practices and programs throughout the state.

The MDA acknowledges the significant impact of climate change on agriculture and the increasing challenges faced by producers due to rising temperatures and extreme weather events.

MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen commended the hard work of farmers and partners in mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change, ensuring resilient working lands and ag economies while meeting Minnesota's climate goals.

As part of Climate Week, the MDA joined Pine Tree Apple Orchard in White Bear Lake to highlight sustainable practices that support local ag production. The orchard has implemented various measures, including hail netting and enrollment in the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP), to enhance its resilience to extreme weather events and promote sustainable farming.

The MDA offers several programs to support stakeholders interested in adopting climate-smart ag practices:

• Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP): This voluntary program provides regulatory certainty for farmers who implement conservation measures to protect water quality. 
• Preparing for Extreme Weather Grant: This grant helps livestock and specialty crop producers purchase equipment to make their operations more resilient to extreme weather. 
• Soil Health Financial Assistance Grant: This grant provides cost-share for equipment to advance soil health farming practices. 
• Biofuels Infrastructure Grant: This grant supports gas stations in upgrading their equipment to supply higher-blend ethanol fuel options. 
• Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant: This grant funds on-farm research and demonstrations of sustainable agriculture practices. 

In addition, the MDA has received funding as part of the U.S. EPA's Climate Pollution Reduction Grant to support farmers in adopting climate-friendly practices and transitioning to cleaner-burning fuels.

The MDA's efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture are crucial for ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for Minnesota's agricultural sector. By supporting farmers and ag businesses in adopting these practices, the MDA is helping to address the challenges of climate change and protect our natural resources.

Photo Credit:minnesota-department-of-agriculture