(NewsNation) — Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Wednesday announced a “farmers first” pilot program to support regenerative agriculture.
The so-called Regenerative Pilot Program will invest $700 million to support regenerative agriculture, which Rollins said will be delivered through existing programs American farmers “already know and already trust.”
“Protecting and improving the health of our soil is critical not only for the future viability of farmland but also for the future success of American farmers,” Rollins said. “To be the most productive and efficient growers in the world, we must protect our topsoil from erosion and boost the microbiome of the soil.”
Rollins said the program is designed to have a lasting impact, making “farms more productive, our land healthier and our water cleaner.”
Kennedy said the plan highlights the administration’s commitment to putting farmers first and advancing the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative.
“In September, under President Trump’s leadership, we released the MAHA Strategy Report, which includes a full section on soil health and land stewardship,” Kennedy said. “Today’s regenerative farming announcement directly advances that deliverable. If we intend to Make America Healthy Again, we must begin by restoring the health of our soil.”
How can producers apply for the Regenerative Pilot Program?
The program will focus on “whole-farm planning,” addressing resource concerns such as soil, water and natural vitality under a single conservation framework.
The Department of Agriculture is dedicating $400 million through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and $300 million through the Conservation Stewardship Program to fund regenerative agriculture projects in their first year.
Producers can now bundle multiple regenerative practices into a single application. The program is designed for both beginning and advanced producers, ensuring availability for all farmers ready to take the next step in regenerative agriculture.
Farmers and ranchers interested in regenerative agriculture are encouraged to apply through their local Natural Resources Conservation Service center by their state’s ranking dates for consideration.
The announcement follows Rollins’ appearance with President Donald Trump on Monday, when he unveiled $12 billion in aid to American farmers. Rollins described the payment as a bridge for farmers to get through to the next planting season. She noted that $11 billion would be available for one-time payments, with $1 billion set aside to ensure the department can meet other needs.