Vilsack Signs $95 Million Initiative for Cover Crops

USDA, in partnership with ag and wildlife groups, has partnered to launch the Farmers for Soil Health initiative. With a $95 million grant to kick it off, Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says its goal is to advance soil health practices through the use of cover crops.

Funding from the grant will cover both financial and technical assistance needed for farmers transitioning to cover crops and provide a market platform to help farmers diversify their revenue streams.

Signed during Commodity Classic in Orlando, Florida, Sec. Vilsack calls the grant an opportunity for customer-based and outcome-based contracts for soybeans, corn, wheat and sugar beet growers.

Read more on the conservation- and opportunity-focused initiative here.