President Biden continues to affirm the administration’s focus on climate. A key USDA nomination this week showcased just how important of a role agriculture - and USDA’s farm programs - will play when it comes to building policies focused on climate.
The President nominated Robert Bonnie for Undersecretary of Farm Production and Conservation. Bonnie, who grew up on a farm in Kentucky, has a long list of experience at USDA, including the position of Undersecretary for Natural Resources and the Environment under the Obama administration.
“American Farmland Trust applauds the nomination of Robert Bonnie for Undersecretary of Farm Production and Conservation,” says Tim Fink, American Farmland Trust’s policy director. “Robert has a deep understanding of incentive-based approaches that enable farmers, ranchers, and landowners to implement conversation practices.”
Most recently, Bonnie served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor for Climate in the Biden Administration. The experience is something some groups think will play a key role in Bonnie overseeing current and future USDA programs.
“The science shows that, with proper stewardship, our nation’s agricultural lands can mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon in the soil, all while improving water quality, resilience, and profitability for farmers,” adds Fink. “However, the science will not be enough to drive broader implementation of regenerative practices. These practices will need to make economic sense to farmers and the development of policies encouraging their widespread adoption will require bringing farmers to the table, technical assistance support, and long-term engagement. Mr. Bonnie recognizes the importance of these steps and knows how to get things done.”
