The Bipartisan Policy Center’s Farm and Forest Carbon Solutions Task Force released a report proposing new climate guidelines for the upcoming farm bill. Former North Dakota Senator Heidi Heitkamp is on the task force. “We’re looking at how agriculture engages in the long-term in the process of climate solutions. How do we ensure we have a seat at the table?” There are five themes or areas of policy recommendations ranging from developing new finance and insurance instruments, strengthening voluntary carbon markets and expanding existing conservation programs. “When it comes to expanding existing programs, the best example I can give is EQIP. I’ve seen it work during the drought in western North Dakota. Farmers could use that program and still have grass for their herd. Unfortunately, it’s over prescribed, which means there are more people that want to use it than we have money for and we need to make sure those who want to use this program can.”
