Jul 30, 2024

Central State University launches climate-smart commodities program

Central State University is recruiting 20 farmers from Ohio and southeastern Michigan to join the Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities Program, funded by a $5 million USDA grant.

The Wilberforce, Ohio, university’s initiative, running from fall 2024 through 2028, aims to promote climate-smart practices in agriculture.

“The goal of this partnership with the USDA-NRCS is to build markets for climate-smart commodities and invest in America’s climate-smart producers to strengthen U.S. rural and agricultural communities,” said Ibrahim Katampe, Ph.D., project director and assistant director of Innovation and Technology Incubation.

Farmers will use manure as natural fertilizer and implement climate-smart practices for growing vegetables. The program targets socially disadvantaged farmers and provides incentives such as seeds, manure-based fertilizer, and drip irrigation systems.

“Urban, as well as rural, farmers are encouraged to be part of the project,” said Cindy Folck, Ph.D., project co-director and interim associate CSU Extension administrator. “The objective is to measure, quantify, and verify the carbon and greenhouse gas benefits associated with these practices.”

Farmers interested in participating can complete an interest form.

For more information, email Ibrahim Katampe or Cindy Folck.