By Andi Anderson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is recruiting 40 Climate Change Fellows to assist with the increasing applications from farmers, ranchers, and rural businesses seeking clean energy project funding through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). Funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, this step marks a significant move in combatting climate issues and aligns with the Investing in America agenda.
Maria Gallegos Herrera, USDA Rural Development California State Director, emphasized the impact these recruits would have in expanding funding opportunities for rural businesses and agricultural producers in California.
These positions are pivotal to the USDA Climate Change Fellows Program, hiring individuals with diverse skills to drive USDA’s climate initiatives, devise agricultural solutions, and support economic growth. This program enriches the federal workforce with fresh expertise, raising awareness of climate issues across state offices nationwide. This investment aims to groom future agricultural leaders, attracting top talent to tackle the evolving challenges in the agricultural sector.
The Inflation Reduction Act allocated $2 billion to REAP, meeting the surging demand from farmers and small business owners looking to expand into wind, solar, and other clean energy projects. Additionally, it promotes energy efficiency, offering potential revenue streams through net metering and power purchase agreements. USDA has already released $1.25 billion, witnessing a notable increase in grant applications.
The newly appointed fellows will be spread across various states, contributing to USDA Rural Development’s national and state offices. Initial appointments may last up to two years, extendable up to four years. Furthermore, most states will receive additional funds for REAP technical assistance, complementing these staffing positions.
Photo Credit: USDA
Categories: Michigan, Government & Policy