Farmers Must Report Tilling Native Grasslands to Keep Crop Insurance.
This law introduces new administrative rules for farmers who convert native, undisturbed grasslands into cropland. To remain eligible for essential federal financial support, such as crop insurance and disaster aid, producers must now formally certify and map these converted areas. This change aims to monitor and potentially discourage the destruction of valuable prairie ecosystems, directly impacting farmers' administrative duties.
Key points
Farmers tilling native sod for crop production must officially certify this acreage using specific government forms and maps.
Compliance is mandatory to receive federal benefits, including crop insurance and noninsured crop disaster assistance.
The government will track and report annually on the amount of native sod converted in each state and county until 2028.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1539
Sponsor: Sen. Thune, John [R-SD]
Process start date: 2023-05-10