The senate has passed S.1251 entitled the Growing Climate Solutions Act.  Introduced by Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Mike Braun (R-IN) this legislation would establish a certification program administered by the USDA.  The intent is to facilitate farmers and owners of forests to participate in carbon credit markets.  Challenges facing farmers include uncertainty as to implementation of projects, identifying trustworthy partners and participants and a lack of expertise.  Proposed amendments to S.1251 will allow for farmer representation on the EOSGA advisory panel. A companion bill was introduced into the House by Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) and Don Bacon (R-NE). 

In commenting on the Growing Climate Solutions Act, Chuck Conner, president and CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives stated, “America’s farmers and ranchers have a key role to play in addressing climate challenge and the Growing Climate Solutions act is a key step to bringing them the proven science, accurate data and standardization needed to make a positive impact”.