Alex Simpkins, alexander.simpkins@sierraclub.org, 202.675.6595
Washington, D.C. -- This week, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01) introduced H.R. 5861 - the Agriculture Resilience Act (ARA).
The Sierra Club applauds the inclusion of several important sections of the ARA, including Title V, which supports pasture-based livestock as the alternative to CAFOs — concentrated animal feeding operations, and Title VII with new, innovative proposals to reduce food loss and waste.
The Sierra Club also supports Section 304, which will increase USDA support for state-level initiatives to improve soil health.
In Response Hank Graddy, 6th generation farmer, member of Sierra Club’s GN Food and Agriculture Team and Federal Policy Subcommittee, issued the following statement:
“We commend Rep. Chellie Pingree for introducing the bi-partisan Agricultural Resilience Act. This bill is a positive step toward building the soil health that is critical for our future. Restoring soil carbon, reducing fertilizer use, and cover cropping are all necessary for building a resilient and equitable food system while addressing the consequences of the climate crisis. The Sierra Club supports this major step forward for climate smart agriculture, pasture based livestock, reductions in food waste, and state level initiatives to improve soil health.”
###
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3.5 million members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.