Jul 26, 2024

Central State University to recruit farmers for $5M USDA Climate-Smart Initiative

Central State University is seeking 20 farmers from Ohio and southeastern Michigan to join its USDA-funded Climate-Smart Commodities Program. The initiative, backed by a $5 million grant, will support farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices over the next five years.

The project focuses on expanding markets for climate-smart beef, fruits, vegetables, and specialty crops, aiming to strengthen rural and agricultural communities. Starting in fall 2024 and running through 2028, the program encourages participation from both urban and rural farmers, particularly those who are socially disadvantaged.

“The goal is to build markets for climate-smart commodities and invest in America’s climate-smart producers to strengthen U.S. rural and agricultural communities,” said Project Director Ibrahim Katampe, Ph.D., CSU assistant director of Innovation and Technology Incubation.

Farmers will use manure as a natural fertilizer and integrate climate-smart practices, with the objective of measuring and verifying the carbon and greenhouse gas benefits of these methods. “We aim to determine the marketing and economic viability of produce labeled as raised with climate-smart technologies,” said Project co-director Cindy Folck, Ph.D., interim associate CSU Extension administrator.

Farmers that wish to learn more, or who wish to participate need to complete an interest form.