Synopsis

How will U.S. agriculture be affected by climate change and how do farmers benefit by decreasing their greenhouse gas emissions?

Executive Summary

Agriculture and Climate Change: The Policy Context is the first in a series of two Farm Bill Policy Notes that look at opportunities and reasons for the U.S. agriculture industry to participate in climate policy discussions. This note analyzes the impact of climate change on U.S. agriculture, discusses sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the agricultural sector, and explains the possible roles for agriculture in proposed climate change legislation.

U.S. agriculture producers stand to benefit from proposed climate policy, but only if they become active participants in the climate policy dialogue.  With public perception and understanding of climate change at an all-time high, this is an opportune time for farmers to act so future legislation is in their best interest.