New Office to Boost Support and Grants for Small Farms and Ranches
This law establishes a dedicated Office of Small Farms within the USDA to improve support and access to federal resources for smaller agricultural and forestry operations. The Office will coordinate assistance, identify and remove bureaucratic obstacles, and provide direct grants up to $25,000 for essential needs like equipment repair, business planning, and land acquisition down payments. This aims to enhance the financial viability and growth potential of small farm operators.
Key points
Creation of the Office of Small Farms within the USDA, focusing on operations with annual income under $350,000 and typically less than 180 acres.
Small operators can access grants up to $25,000 for infrastructure upgrades, conservation practices, and down payments for land acquisition.
The Office is mandated to simplify procedures and coordinate technical assistance, making it easier for small farms to utilize existing federal loan and grant programs.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1809
Sponsor: Sen. Booker, Cory A. [D-NJ]
Process start date: 2023-06-06