Farmers and environmental advocates are voicing strong concerns over the recent decision by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to cut its Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities program. This initiative aimed to support small farms in adopting climate-resilient practices and improving conservation efforts.
At a press event in Scranton, PA, state Rep. Kyle Donahue and others highlighted how this program could have benefited smaller farms. They argue that the USDA’s move favors large corporate farms over smaller, more diverse operations. This trend isn’t new; many have noted that funding often skews towards these big players, leaving smaller farms struggling.
Donahue emphasized that farmers are on the front lines of climate change. With unpredictable weather patterns leading to longer droughts and severe storms, farmers face risks that threaten their livelihoods and worker safety. In fact, the Farm Bureau reported that weather events in 2024 caused over $20 billion in losses across U.S. farms.
The USDA’s cancellation of the climate-smart program has left many small farmers worried. Donahue pointed out that this program was designed to support nearly 60,000 farms and have a positive environmental impact equivalent to removing over 12 million cars from the road. He criticized the USDA for shifting funds to the Advancing Markets for Producers initiative, which some believe prioritizes corporate growth over sustainable practices.
Mary Jayne Zemer, who co-owns Wild Notion Farms, argued that the funding cut undermines small farms’ ability to adapt to climate challenges. Her farm has already felt the impacts of erratic weather, which directly affects crop yields. She pointed out that farmers often notice food supply issues before these problems show up in grocery stores.
Zemer and others are calling for Pennsylvania’s lawmakers to invest in regional food systems that promote and support local, small, and mid-sized farms. Liz Krug, another local farmer, supports these efforts, as her farm relies on climate-smart initiatives for crucial resources to combat soil erosion and provide reliable harvests.
Recent shifts in climate impact how farmers operate. Krug noted that this year has seen extreme weather patterns lead to crop disruption. For example, she experienced an unusual ten inches of rain in May alone, which significantly affects planting schedules and crop health.
Clancy Harrison, founder of Food Dignity, stressed that programs like the now-defunct Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities were vital for increasing food production while reducing environmental damage. She argues that investing in small farms helps strengthen local economies and food security.
Rabbi Daniel Swartz added that the USDA and Congress have let down farmers and families by cutting essential agricultural funding. He warned that without investment in sustainable farming, more families will struggle to provide nutritious food for their children.
The cutting of such assistance isn’t merely a policy issue; it’s about ensuring a sustainable food future for everyone. As we face climate change, supporting small, local farms is more crucial than ever. It’s a collective responsibility to advocate for a system that values farmers who care for the land, their produce, and the community.
For more information, consider exploring the Climate Action Campaign for insights on agricultural sustainability and policies.
