By Clint Thompson
The Georgia Cotton Commission reminds its growers that applications are currently being received for the Climate Smart Cotton Program, a five-year initiative led by the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. Producers must first enroll in the Trust Protocol by Sept. 1 and upload their 2023 bales by March 1, 2024.
Applications for the Climate Smart Cotton Program are being approved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Chad Brewer, cotton agronomist who heads the Climate Smart Cotton Program for the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, talks about why farmers should participate in the program.
“The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol submitted a proposal to the USDA in response to their notice of funding opportunity called the Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodities,” Brewer said. “This grant provides financial and technical assistance over the course of the next five years for cotton growers to become involved in these climate smart agricultural practices.”
Brewer said farmers can enroll in the Cotton Trust Protocol, which allows them to enter their production practices and measure their sustainability and environmental footprint. Growers can participate in three climate smart practices; cover crops, no-till production and the development of a nutrient management plan.
There are financial incentives in place for growers who participate in the program.
“It’s really a great opportunity for growers that are interested in the sustainability space but are unsure about the cost of entry. We’re able to offset that cost of entry barrier by providing these financial incentives,” Brewer said.
Growers can apply for the Climate Smart Cotton Program and enroll in the Trust Protocol at www.TrustUSCotton.org. For a step-by-step video on how to enroll, growers can watch the below video, or click here.
U.S. cotton growers can apply now through September 1, 2023 for the Climate Smart Cotton Program, a five-year initiative led by the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. The program aims to measure and improve the carbon footprint of the U.S. cotton industry while building on the four pillars of Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices. Participating growers will receive technical and financial support as well as other benefits that can enhance their operations, profitability and environmental stewardship.
For assistance email info@trustuscotton.org.?
Source: U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol
About the Author
