Illinois Increases Investments in Climate Smart Agriculture Practices
The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA), in collaboration with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), has announced a significant $111 million investment in the agricultural sector, funded by a U.S. EPA (USEPA) Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. This historic opportunity, which complements ongoing federal and state initiatives, aims to provide farmers with the sustainability and security needed for long-term decision-making on their farms. The U.S. EPA recently unveiled the full grant, totaling over $430 million to be distributed over five years
Through this program, IDOA will receive $73 million to support climate-smart agricultural practices, while IEPA will receive $38 million for the electrification of small engines. These funds will be allocated over a five-year period, with projects designed to enhance soil health, reduce erosion, and improve air quality
This funding builds upon local, regional, and statewide programs and networks led by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, including
– Under Governor Pritzker’s administration, the Fall Covers for Spring Savings Cover Crop Program has awarded over $1.4 million in crop insurance rebates to 2,150 farmers using cover crops. Demand for this program has historically exceeded available funds
– In partnership with USDA NRCS, IDOA is investing $12.6 million to fund 40 frontline Conservation Planners across the state
– Through USDA NRCS Regional Conservation Partnership Program grants, the state has leveraged $5.2 million in state funds to secure $17.5 million for climate-smart conservation practices statewide
– The Soil Health Initiative, enacted by the legislature and signed by Governor Pritzker, established a framework for improving soil health in Illinois by promoting cover crops, strip-till, no-till, and erosion and sediment control practices, aligning with the goals of the Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy
– IDOA’s partnership with Saving Tomorrow’s Agriculture Resources (STAR) offers numerous benefits to farmers and landowners in terms of nutrient management, soil health, water quality, cost savings, and sustainability
– The Illinois Nutrient Research Education Council has invested over $32 million in academic research projects focused on nutrient utilization, increased crop production, and water quality
