WASHINGTON, D.C. — A broad, bipartisan coalition of lawmakers affirmed the need for robust funding and strong implementation of U.S. Department of Agriculture conservation programs in the upcoming Farm Bill. The committee should build off this testimony and comments in the forthcoming legislation.

“Farm Bill conservation programs are essential for people and wildlife alike — supporting habitat conservation, clean water and air, and climate resilience,” said Julie Sibbing, associate vice president for land stewardship at the National Wildlife Federation. “The pandemic, droughts, floods, wildfire, and war have underscored the need for conservation practices that can improve water filtration, resist the worst effects of extreme weather, and improve rural economies. The committee, whose members voiced strong support for these programs, should use this bipartisan agreement to ensure the next Farm Bill makes robust investments in these programs to ensure they continue to protect soil, water and wildlife resources and make the agricultural economy more resilient to the external shocks created by climate change.”

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