USDA Cabinet Nominee Vilsack is Positioned to Act Fast on Climate

(WASHINGTON, DC — Dec. 9, 2020) “President-elect Joe Biden just nominated a veteran leader for Agriculture Secretary in Tom Vilsack — a huge advantage for rebuilding a more resilient farm economy and driving fast action on climate.

“From floods and fires to trade wars and a global pandemic, the incoming administration will need to provide a swift lifeline to farmers, ranchers and forestland managers, and to Americans who depend on vital food and nutrition programs.

“America’s farms, ranches and forests are ripe for equitably expanding revenue opportunities from natural climate solutions, which harness the power of nature to capture and store carbon and build climate resilience. Our letter to President-elect Biden’s USDA transition team outlines several priorities for how the agency can do this, including reducing inequities in the distribution of USDA benefits and services that have plagued the agency.”

· Fred Krupp, President, Environmental Defense Fund