The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that agriculture and forestry could play a prominent role in U.S. efforts to address climate change “if farms and ranches undertake activities that reduce [GHG] emissions or take greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere.”

In a recently-released report, “The Role of Agriculture in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions,” the authors identify opportunities for addressing climate change, including: shifting to conservation tillage, reducing the amount of nitrogen fertilizer applied to crops, changing livestock and manure management practices, and planting trees or grass.

In an effort to encourage such activities, the federal government is also considering offering carbon offsets and incentive payments to rural landowners.

A complete copy of USDA’s report is available here: The Role of Agriculture in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

For more information please contact Steve O’Day.