Climate Smart Deadline Approaches

Looking for incentive payments for cover crop acres? 

There are several options available, and the time to apply is now. The climate smart commodities initiative through USDA encourages the voluntary implementation or adoption of various conservation practices or farming practices that will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions or sequester carbon, and in return, often lead to incentive payments or, on some occasions, higher commodity premiums.

KACD and local Conservation Districts are working to promote a variety of incentive programs for soil health improvement activities. One of the KACD partnerships is with Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) through the Climate Smart Commodities Initiatives.

ADM partners with farmers to adopt regenerative agriculture practices, incentivizing a more sustainable future. ADM’s program provides financial rewards for regenerative practices as well as outcomes such as improved soil quality, giving producers the opportunity to sell crops with sustainable attributes at a premium. Incentive payments are available for cover crops planted in 2024 up to $25 per acre through the ADM initiative. Enrollment deadline for planned practices is September 13, 2024.

This is the third year ADM and KACD have partnered together to promote the ADM initiative and have set acreage goals for Kansas at 175,000 wheat acres and 200,000 cover crop acres. Producers are encouraged to visit the KACD ADM Climate Smart Page for a full program overview, a list of frequently asked questions, testimonial videos, and a link to apply online. Technical assistance is available through ADM, KACD, and your local conservation district; contact information is available on the KACD ADM Climate Smart Page.