USDA invests $50M in new agreements for racial justice and equity

DELAWARE- The U.S. Department of Agriculture is investing up to $50 million dollars in new agreements for racial justice and equity.

The money will be used to support historically undeserved farmers and ranchers with climate-smart agriculture and forestry.

Through the Racial Justice and Equity Conservation Cooperative Agreements we’re told it’ll go towards expansion of delivery projects for newer farmers,
have limited resources, are socially disadvantaged, or veteran farmers.

“So if there have been inequities or biases or limitations its now at an opportunity where we can bring those individuals back in, have these resounding conversations and efforts 27 and making sure that again we have prescribed and identified what those needs are here in Delaware,” Kasey Taylor, State Conservationist, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, said.

We’re told the projects made available to these farmers can address local natural resource issues, make new partnerships, and educate and train students for careers in natural resources management.

But, it doesn’t stop there when farmers have access to more it’s also beneficial for the community.

“We are all benefiting from that farm, from our food source, from the clean products that are now coming back in, and more specifically as we are closing out the summer months, as the recreational aspects of it,” Taylor said.

The money will also allow those eligible to continue doing projects that improve soil health, improve water quality, and provide habitat for local wildlife species.

If you would like to apply, applications will be taken through October 25th.

You can click here for more details on applying.