New York farmers stand to lose hundreds of millions in vital conservation funding if Congress eliminates Inflation Reduction Act investments in the next Farm Bill, a new report warns.
The study, published by the Policy Design Lab, estimates that New York could forfeit nearly $343 million in resources that support sustainable farming practices, land preservation, and environmental stewardship. Nationwide, the total at risk tops $18 billion.
The funding supports key U.S. Department of Agriculture programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), and the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). These programs help farmers improve soil health, reduce water pollution, and protect wildlife habitats.
In New York, where agriculture spans from dairy to orchards to vineyards, such programs are crucial for both economic stability and environmental resilience. The report warns that rolling back the funds would reverse progress on regenerative agriculture and climate adaptation, potentially hitting small and mid-size farms the hardest.
The final shape of the Farm Bill remains uncertain as lawmakers debate budget priorities.
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