Last month, discussions with Representative Davids highlighted Sierra Club's concerns about ongoing agriculture policies. The main focus is the potential changes for the 2023 Farm Bill.
One of the primary concerns was the water quality of our nation. Despite being five decades post the Clean Water Act, the water quality isn't getting better. The culprit is excess nutrients, mainly from large-scale animal farms known as CAFOs, which release harmful substances into our waters.
A significant change proposed is redirecting subsidies. Instead of supporting CAFO animal feed, the focus should shift to diverse food crops.
Equally concerning is the equity in subsidy distribution. Large scale, single-crop farms receive the majority of funds. Instead, the Sierra Club believes smaller, diverse family farms deserve more, especially those operated by historically marginalized communities. Urban agriculture should also gain more recognition and support.
The Club emphasized the role of agriculture in climate change. The methods currently in use release enormous amounts of carbon, affecting our environment. The solution exists in Regenerative Agriculture, which prioritizes soil health and reduces carbon emissions. The hope is that the 2023 Farm Bill will reward farmers who adopt these sustainable practices.
Categories: Kansas, Government & Policy