Chesapeake Bay Conservation: Funding for Farmers and Streamlined Catfish Regulation.
This law allocates $75 million annually to support farmers in the Chesapeake Bay region in implementing water and soil conservation practices. It establishes a "Turnkey Pilot Program" where the government covers all costs and manages the planting of streamside buffers, significantly reducing the burden on participating landowners. Furthermore, regulatory oversight of invasive catfish is transferred from the USDA to the FDA, aiming to streamline their market entry as a food source.
Key points
Financial Aid for Farmers: $75 million annually (2024-2027) dedicated to conservation activities, focusing on reducing nitrogen and sediment runoff to improve Chesapeake Bay water quality.
"Turnkey" Conservation Program: A new pilot program covers 100% of the costs and management for establishing riparian buffers on farmland, eliminating expenses and paperwork for participating owners.
Invasive Catfish Oversight Shift: Regulatory inspection of invasive blue and flathead catfish moves from the USDA to the FDA, potentially simplifying commercial harvesting and sale.
Workforce Development: Increased funding (up to $60 million annually) for agricultural education and paid internships to train professionals in conservation and rural development.
Expired
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