Representatives Mike Lawler, Josh Riley, and Kristen McDonald Rivet have introduced the Conservation and Regenerative Optimization Practices for Farming Act, known as the CROP for Farming Act. This bipartisan initiative aims to enhance conservation efforts while providing farmers with tools to improve soil health, boost productivity, and lower emissions through voluntary practices.
The bill proposes updates to the Food Security Act of 1985. These changes aim to support farming methods that reduce nitrous oxide and methane emissions and promote carbon storage in soil and vegetation. This would be achieved through existing conservation incentive contracts under the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Modifications to the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) are also part of the bill. It encourages methods like no-till farming, cover cropping, and improved grazing management to enhance soil fertility, improve water retention, and ensure long-term farm resilience.
Congressman Mike Lawler emphasized the importance of this act by stating: “Our farmers are the backbone of our economy and the original conservationists.” He added that it empowers farmers to adopt responsible land management practices essential for protecting natural resources.
Congressman Josh Riley highlighted the leadership role of upstate farmers in climate-smart agriculture. He remarked: “The CROP for Farming Act makes sure USDA conservation funding supports those efforts.”
Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet stressed that “the success of our farmers and protecting the environment go hand in hand.”
Daphne Yin from Carbon180 praised the legislation’s focus on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas reductions as priorities in conservation programs.
Numerous organizations have endorsed this legislation, including Environmental Working Group, Carbon180, CleanEarth4Kids.org, Climate Action Now, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Northeast Organic Dairy Producers Alliance among others.
Representative Lawler is noted for his bipartisan approach in Congress. He represents New York’s 17th Congressional District north of New York City.
