Secretary Karen Ross of the CDFA on Collaborating on Sustainability in Animal Agriculture

Summary

The speech highlights the urgent need for climate action, particularly in reducing methane emissions from livestock, and emphasizes collaboration across sectors. The speaker discusses California's efforts, including key legislative actions like SB 1383, innovative programs, and partnerships between government, academia, and the private sector. Special focus is given to dairy farmers' leadership in methane reduction and the importance of research and technical assistance. The speaker also stresses the significance of consumer engagement and the potential for circular economy solutions, underscoring the importance of making these initiatives economically and environmentally viable for long-term success.

Takeaways

• 😀 The conference is growing in popularity, reflecting the increasing importance of methane emissions reduction in agriculture.
• 🌍 Climate crisis solutions require collaboration across multiple sectors, including government, academia, and the private sector.
• 🚜 Livestock methane emissions, especially from dairy, play a critical role in climate change mitigation and agricultural resilience.
• 📝 The passage of California's SB 1383 in 2016 highlighted the state's leadership in addressing climate change through legislative action on methane emissions.
• 🔬 Research and technical assistance are vital for developing evidence-based solutions and ensuring the success of policies aimed at reducing methane emissions.
• 🤝 Strong partnerships between government, academia, and the private sector are essential for the successful implementation of climate-smart agricultural practices.
• 💡 Voluntary incentive programs allow farmers and ranchers to transition to sustainable practices without economic harm, with a focus on feasibility and innovation.
• 💸 California's investment in dairy digesters and alternative manure management practices has been highly effective in reducing methane emissions and supporting the local economy.
• 🌱 The state's climate-smart programs, including the alternative manure management program, aim to reduce carbon emissions, support healthy soils, and improve local economic opportunities.
• 💬 The complexity of methane mitigation in livestock farming requires ongoing research, consumer outreach, and collaboration with veterinary and nutritional experts to ensure health and product acceptance.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the conference mentioned in the transcript?

The main focus of the conference is addressing climate change through the reduction of methane emissions, particularly in the livestock sector, and discussing the role of various stakeholders in achieving climate goals.

What role does California play in addressing methane emissions and climate change?

California has been a leader in setting policies aimed at reducing methane emissions, especially from the livestock sector, through legislation like SB 1383 and by providing financial incentives for industry collaboration to meet climate goals.

How has California's SB 1383 legislation impacted the livestock sector?

SB 1383, passed in 2016, has pushed for the reduction of methane emissions in the livestock sector. It has encouraged the use of dairy digesters and alternative manure management practices to help meet the state's climate goals.

What is the significance of the USDA's involvement in the state's climate programs?

The USDA has played a critical role by setting strong climate goals and supporting voluntary, incentive-based programs that help the agricultural sector transition to more sustainable practices.

What examples of successful collaboration are highlighted in the transcript?

Successful collaborations include the dairy sector working with various partners, such as developers of dairy digesters and resource conservation districts (RCDs), to adopt alternative manure management practices and reduce methane emissions.

What financial investments have been made to support climate-smart agricultural practices?

California has invested nearly $1 billion in climate-smart agriculture programs, including $227 million for 40 dairy digester projects, with an additional $489 million in matching funds. Other programs, such as the Alternative Manure Management Program, have also received significant funding.

What is the 'circular economy' example mentioned in the transcript?

The circular economy example refers to the use of dairy digesters that convert waste products into useful products, while also addressing environmental issues like air pollution and contributing to local economies.

What is the importance of research and technical assistance in addressing climate change in agriculture?

Research and technical assistance are essential for generating objective, evidence-based science that informs policy decisions. They help ensure that agricultural practices are both effective and economically feasible, particularly for small-scale farms.

What challenges are faced when developing novel solutions like feed additives to reduce methane emissions from livestock?

Developing novel solutions like feed additives for methane reduction is complex and involves various stakeholders, including veterinarians, animal nutritionists, feed companies, and consumers. It requires careful consideration of animal health, product safety, and consumer acceptance.

How does the private sector contribute to the climate initiatives mentioned in the transcript?

The private sector, especially businesses and industries, plays a crucial role in responding to the policy signals set by the government. By adopting new technologies and practices, they help make the business case for climate-smart agriculture and contribute to the success of these initiatives.