New Crop Bill Supports Climate-Friendly Farming Practices

By Blake Jackson

Representatives Mike Lawler (NY-17), Josh Riley (NY-19), and Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) have introduced a new bipartisan bill the Conservation and Regenerative Optimization Practices for Farming Act, or the CROP for Farming Act.

This legislation aims to support conservation efforts, enhance agricultural productivity, and help farmers adopt voluntary practices that promote environmental sustainability.

The bill updates the Food Security Act of 1985, integrating support for farm initiatives that focus on reducing nitrous oxide and methane emissions.

It also recognizes practices that increase carbon storage in soil and vegetation, utilizing existing conservation incentive contracts administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Through strategic improvements to the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the CROP for Farming Act promotes sustainable practices such as no-till farming, cover cropping, and rotational grazing. These methods improve soil fertility, help retain water, and contribute to long-term agricultural resilience.

“Our farmers are the backbone of our economy and the original conservationists,” said Congressman Mike Lawler. “The CROP for Farming Act empowers them to continue adopting responsible land management practices that protect natural resources and ensure long-term viability, not just for their farms, but for our food supply and our environment. This bill ensures federal policy reflects the realities on the ground and supports producers who are making smart, forward-looking decisions.”

“Upstate farmers are leading on climate-smart ag using cover crops, rotational grazing, and precision fertilizer to cut emissions and rebuild the soil. The CROP for Farming Act makes sure USDA conservation funding supports those effort," said Congressman Josh Riley.

"It directs more resources to practices that fight climate change and strengthen rural economies. It’s practical, it’s bipartisan, and I’m proud to sponsor it."

“The success of our farmers and protecting the environment go hand in hand,” said Congresswoman McDonald Rivet. “I hear from farmers all the time whose families have worked their land for generations and who want to conserve that same land for future generations. Through the CROP Farming Act, I am working with both parties to make that easier to achieve.”

The bill is supported by several organizations, including the Environmental Working Group, Carbon180, CleanEarth4Kids.org, Climate Action Now, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Northeast Organic Dairy Producers Alliance, and NOFA-NY.

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