By Scout Nelson
U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds introduces a bipartisan bill that would encourage farmers and ranchers to convert some cropland back to grassland. The proposal aims to support cattle production while giving producers another land-use option.
Jackson Dircks of SDPB reported that the proposal comes as the U.S. cattle herd remains near its smallest size in several decades. South Dakota has also experienced a major decline in grassland, increasing interest in programs that can protect and restore grazing areas.
The Rebuilding America’s National Cow Herd, or RANCH, Act would allow farmers and ranchers with land that has a cropping history to enter voluntary 10- to 15-year rental contracts with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Participants would plant perennial grasses and vegetation suited to their region.
The proposed program would provide a 50% cost share for establishing grass cover. New farmers and ranchers could receive up to 75%. An additional incentive could cover part of the cost of high-quality, diverse native seed mixes. The program would be limited to 20 million acres nationwide.
The RANCH Act would provide participating landowners about 75% of the average county rental rate for land that remains in commodity production. The land could still be grazed, while haying would be permitted during emergency conditions.
The proposal comes as lawmakers also consider year-round E15 gasoline sales, which could support corn demand. More than half of South Dakota’s corn crop is used for ethanol.
“That’s exactly the reason why we’re looking at the RANCH Act: to make sure those folks have got another viable alternative," Rounds said.
Photo Credit: pexels-jeffrey-czum
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle