US president Barack Obama has pledged $50 million (£32.9m) to help farmers across the nation adopt organic techniques.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) deputy secretary Kathleen Merrigan announced the funds while speaking to the USDA’s National Organic Standards Board, reports the Mercury News.
Obama’s administration will accept applications from farmers who wish to make the switch to organic farming or expand their current operation from May 11-29.
Crop rotation, the planting of cover crops, managing pests and nutrients and enhancing pasture grasses are all practices eligible for funding.
The funding will be part of the voluntary Environmental Quality Incentives Program, which aids conservation of resources.
