The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a new $700 million Regenerative Pilot Program aimed at supporting sustainable farming practices. This initiative comes shortly after the previous administration’s $12 billion bailout for farmers affected by market fluctuations.

Managed by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), this program will provide financial support for farmers who adopt methods to enhance soil health, productivity, and water quality, as detailed in a recent press release.

During the launch, which coincided with the release of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) report, USDA officials mentioned efforts to simplify administrative processes for farmers. Growers can now submit a single application for both the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).

The EQIP will contribute $400 million to the program in 2026, while the CSP will provide the remaining $300 million. “We aim to deliver support through trusted programs, ensuring the health of our soil, crucial for the viability of farmland and the success of American farmers,” stated Brooke Rollins, USDA secretary, during a press conference.

Rollins emphasized the previous fragmentation of conservation programs and highlighted the pilot’s unified approach that centers around whole farm planning. This strategy addresses essential resources such as soil, water, and overall vitality simultaneously, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for producers.

Chief’s Regenerative Agriculture Advisory Council

To support the program’s implementation, NRCS will establish the Chief’s Regenerative Agriculture Advisory Council, which will include rotating stakeholders who will convene quarterly for evaluations. The USDA is also looking to foster public-private partnerships to enhance regenerative agriculture efforts and invites interested parties to collaborate.

Transitioning Away from Synthetic Fertilizers

Current Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who spearheaded the MAHA movement as part of his presidential campaign, has advocated for policies aimed at reducing chronic diseases, including proposals to phase out synthetic fertilizers in favor of regenerative practices.

“The Regenerative Pilot Program provides farmers an ‘off-ramp’ to transition to practices emphasizing soil health,” RFK Jr. noted. The MAHA report reviewed the health impacts of common herbicides but did not establish a connection, stating that updated health recommendations will come next year.

Additionally, the HHS will research the relationship between public health and regenerative agriculture as part of the pilot program, aiming to develop pertinent public health messaging.

Industry Support for Regenerative Agriculture

The agriculture and environmental sectors have enthusiastically welcomed the initiative. Organizations like the American Farm Bureau have praised the recognition of farmers’ longstanding engagement in regenerative practices.

“It’s encouraging to see USDA building on existing voluntary, incentive-based programs to further regenerative goals, while allowing farmers to remain in control,” stated Zippy Duvall, president of the American Farm Bureau, in a recent statement.

Farm Action, a nonpartisan group, expressed optimism while urging the USDA to ensure adequate staffing within NRCS to effectively manage the funding and support distributions. “Regenerative agriculture enhances public health and paves the way for improved farmer profitability,” emphasized Angela Huffman, the group’s president.

Environmental advocacy group the Environmental Working Group (EWG) also stressed the importance of regenerative practices, calling for enhanced funding for effective conservation practices and resources for farmers.

“Prioritizing regenerative agriculture practices are vital steps in enhancing farm resilience,” added Anne Schechinger, EWG’s Midwest director.

The launch of the Regenerative Pilot Program signals a robust governmental commitment to sustainable agriculture and addresses the pressing need for environmental responsibility while supporting farmer innovation and resilience.