Carbon credits. You are hearing about them all the time. It is THE topic of 2021 in agriculture. You don?t have to search very far to find some kind of program being announced or being offered. This is new for companies and farmers alike. While each program is different, they all have the same goals in mind. Finding a practice to help you sequester more carbon and getting paid for it.
So, how do you know what program is right for you?
Sarah Carlson is the Strategic Initiatives Director for Practical Farmers of Iowa. She says the first thing Iowa farmers need to consider is if the field they are thinking of enrolling in a program is new to cover crops, or if it has already been using these practices.
Carlson says it is about doing your homework. Use the calculator tools which are available and study the terms of the contract length. Some contracts are in upwards of a decade. Find what is going to be a better commitment for you in the end, and what can give you flexibility down the road.
It isn?t surprising that there are many growers out there who think that carbon credits and conservation farming are a fad. They are digging in their heels on any kinds of changes that are coming. This is why the carbon credit initiative is gaining traction. It is incentivizing the need for farmers to change what they have always done.
Carlson says the data cannot be ignored. However, getting into the carbon market just for the payments is the wrong reason.
Carlson says you can contact Practical Farmers of Iowa for an unbiased look at different programs available and advice on what questions you should be asking.
