The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded funding to the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) to enhance regenerative practices among specialty crop growers.
This initiative is part of the USDA’s Advancing Markets for Producers grant program, which aims to align with the Administration’s priorities on climate-smart agriculture and market competitiveness.
The IFPA’s project, titled “Advancing Markets for Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture in Specialty Crops,” builds on previous sustainability and resiliency pilots, now strengthened by new government investment.
This project seeks to involve 30 more growers, adding to the 70 already participating, with a focus on California and Washington State producers.
The IFPA is partnering with organizations like Measure to Improve, Croptrak, and the Cornell University Soil Health Lab to provide targeted incentives and technical assistance.
- USDA funds IFPA for regenerative practices in specialty crops.
- Project involves 100 growers, focusing on California and Washington State.
- Collaborations with Measure to Improve, Croptrak, and Cornell University.
- Targets six sustainable practices to enhance market competitiveness.
- Aims to improve environmental performance and economic viability.
The emphasis is on six key sustainable practices: alley cropping, nutrient management, residue and tillage management, short-season cover crops, soil amendments and mulches, and water management.
These efforts aim to enhance market opportunities and competitiveness for fruits and vegetables cultivated using these regenerative methods.
According to Tamara Muruetagoiena, IFPA’s Vice President of Sustainability, fresh produce growers have historically been at the forefront of sustainability.
Muruetagoiena highlighted the importance of regenerative agriculture as public and policy interest in these practices grows.
She emphasized that fresh fruits and vegetables are the original sustainable food choice, with growers acting as environmental stewards for thousands of years.
The IFPA remains committed to policies that bolster agricultural resilience and expand support for growers across diverse regions and crops.
The project targets both short-lived and long-life perennial crops, including strawberries, tomatoes, carrots, onions, and specialty greens, among others.
Additionally, it seeks to involve vineyards and orchards, underscoring the diversity of crops benefiting from regenerative practices.
By promoting these grower-led solutions, the IFPA aims to enhance environmental performance while maintaining long-term economic viability.
For more information on participating in the regenerative agriculture pilots, interested parties can visit the IFPA website.
