Local farms advocate for funding toward climate projects

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Local farmers are asking congress to not reduce the amount of money set aside for climate projects in the national farm bill.

Right now $19.5 billion are being allocated in the Inflation Reduction Act, to go toward sustainable agriculture.

Advocates say the money will go towards projects such as organic farming, water conservation and start up money for future farmers breaking into the industry.

Advocates say climate-friendly farming techniques can also help with the ongoing drought.

"We use these agricultural methods that are proven to help restore the quality of the soil so that it retains water," said Lindsay Gonzales, Deputy Director for the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance. "That helps with droughts and that can help with flooding."

Gonzales said sustainable food production can also help with food production in the long term.