By Jamie Martin
The Expanding Agroforestry Incentive Payment Program, beginning January 31, 2025, invites eligible producers from 30 states to integrate sustainable tree farming into their agricultural practices. This USDA-supported initiative aims to expand agroforestry and enhance environmental sustainability on American farms.
Eligible farmers who are selected will receive incentive payments that subsidize 75% of the costs for new agroforestry installations, or up to $450 per acre. The targeted practices include alley cropping, silvopasture, and windbreaks, designed to enrich biodiversity, enhance land productivity, and contribute to climate change mitigation.
"Agroforestry offers a unique synergy between agricultural production and environmental stewardship," said Kris Johnson, Ph.D., emphasizing the dual benefits of economic resilience and ecological health.
"By integrating trees into agricultural lands, producers can diversify their income by harvesting valuable commodities like fruits, nuts and timber, while still maintaining productive farmland."
Interested participants are encouraged to attend a Town Hall webinar on January 22, 2025, for a comprehensive overview of the program. Applications will be accepted through March 14, 2025, with details available at nature.org/Expanding/Agroforestry.
This program is strategically aimed at enhancing the adoption of agroforestry practices across the U.S., addressing the low current uptake and potentially transforming the agricultural landscape for future generations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-paul-hartley
Categories: National