Pasa Sustainable Agriculture has announced the reinstatement of a $59 million contract with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The agreement had been terminated soon after President Trump took office last year, as part of a broader cancellation of the Biden administration’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Program.
Contract Renegotiation
According to Pasa executive director Hannah Kinney Smith, “I’m thrilled to say that after a year of lawsuits and appeals and repeatedly going back to USDA to renegotiate that, we did secure our contract.” The renegotiated contract no longer includes funding for climate and equity-focused farm investments, but will continue to support conservation projects, as well as business and marketing initiatives for farms.
The contract cancellation initially led to layoffs, but Smith stated that Pasa has been able to rehire half of the 60 employees who were previously let head. Prior to the termination, Pasa had funded 125 farm conservation projects and received 850 additional applications.
Looking Ahead
With the renegotiated $59 million contract, Pasa currently has approximately $50 million remaining to distribute. Smith emphasized the importance of these funds, stating that they can “help farmers, strengthen agricultural communities and care for landscapes, at a time when it is sorely needed.” Details regarding application processes and farmer eligibility are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Pasa joined a federal lawsuit last March, alongside other organizations affected by the funding freeze. Although Smith believes their determination, rather than the lawsuit itself, was the primary factor in the contract’s reinstatement, the legal action likely contributed to the pressure on the USDA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original purpose of Pasa’s contract with the USDA?
Pasa’s initial contract was intended to help 2,000 smaller farmers in 15 states address climate issues and provide benefits to underserved farm producers, environmental justice organizations, minority-focused institutions of higher education and tribal groups.
What changed in the renegotiated contract?
The renegotiated contract no longer covers payments for climate and equity-focused farm investments, but still includes funding for conservation projects, business and marketing for farms.
How many employees was Pasa able to rehire?
Pasa has been able to rehire half of the 60 people it had to lay off when the contract was initially canceled.
As agricultural conditions remain “downright volatile,” will continued investment in farm support programs be enough to address the challenges facing farmers and rural communities?
Worth a look