He’s using innovative techniques to adapt to the changing climate. Hilery is a prime example of how Black farmers are leading the way in climate-smart agriculture. The Gulf South region, with its warm, humid climate, is particularly vulnerable to climate change. The region is home to a rich agricultural heritage, but it’s also facing challenges like rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and soil degradation.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) promotes climate-smart agriculture, which focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing carbon sequestration. Climate-smart agriculture emphasizes sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the economy. The USDA encourages farmers to adopt practices like cover crops, no-till farming, and crop rotation.
His father’s words, “The land is your teacher,” have shaped his approach to life and his career. Gobert’s journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur began with a simple idea: to create a sustainable and ethical business model. He wanted to build a company that would not only be profitable but also contribute to the environment and society.
We’re trying to build up the soil,” he explained. The demonstration farm is a vital resource for the Mississippi Delta, providing practical knowledge and hands-on experience for farmers. It’s a place where farmers can learn about sustainable farming practices, such as cover crops, no-till farming, and integrated pest management.
The 1960s saw a shift in focus from research to outreach, with the land-grant universities becoming more involved in providing practical solutions to farmers’ problems. This shift was driven by the Civil Rights Movement and the growing awareness of social justice issues. The 1990s saw a renewed focus on technology and innovation, with land-grant universities playing a crucial role in developing new technologies and disseminating them to farmers. This was driven by the increasing demand for efficiency and productivity in agriculture.
The farm is owned and operated by the Mississippi-based non-profit organization, the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation. Start 2 Finish Farm is a model for sustainable agriculture, focusing on regenerative practices and soil health.
Glickman case, which was settled in 2007, was a turning point. This lawsuit, which involved over 10,000 Black farmers, alleged that the USDA had discriminated against them in the beginning of the Pigford v. Glickman case. The lawsuit was a catalyst for change, leading to the creation of the USDA’s Office of Civil Rights and the establishment of a new program called the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is a voluntary program that helps farmers improve their land management practices. It provides financial assistance and technical support to farmers who implement conservation practices on their land.
This statement reflects a key aspect of the current agricultural landscape: the availability of funding opportunities for Black farmers. However, the challenge lies in effectively utilizing these resources to achieve tangible and sustainable agricultural success. The summary highlights the importance of practical application and strategic planning in maximizing the impact of funding.