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USDA is needed to vet carbon programs

The president of the Michigan Farm Bureau says USDA needs to play a key role in overseeing the creation of carbon credit programs for farmers.

“What we’re finding out is that is various tremendously on companies, on contracts, and I would say it’s still the Wild West out there.”

During Secretary Tom Vilsack’s visit to Michigan Friday, among issues farmers raised were questions on climate policy and carbon trading.  Carl Bednarski tells Brownfield the carbon economy is still new, and USDA can help simplify where farmers fit in.

“Yes, I think it’s key that they are a part of this at this time, but at some point the free market enterprise is probably take control of this,” he explains.

He suggests USDA serve in a watchdog role establishing fair guidelines for carbon sequestration on farms.