Farm bill adds composting and solar drying as manure alternatives

What does this do?

The COWS Act (HR 5875) amends existing farm conservation programs to add alternative manure management practices, such as compost barns, solar drying, and solid-liquid separation systems, to the USDA's Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). The bill creates official definitions for these practices and requires the Department of Agriculture to develop technical standards and publish emissions reduction estimates. Applications would be ranked by how much they reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve water quality.

Who does it affect?

The bill primarily affects dairy and livestock farmers nationwide, with priority given to small and mid-sized farms, beginning farmers, and farmers from disadvantaged backgrounds. The Department of Agriculture would take on new administrative responsibilities, and nearby communities could see changes in local air and water quality.

Why does it matter?

Current widespread use of liquid manure lagoons releases methane and other gases, and this bill would shift federal financial support toward practices that avoid that storage method. Groups of farmers could apply jointly to share a composting facility, affecting how operations coordinate at a regional level.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Up to 100% of costs covered
• At least 50% paid upfront
• Small and mid-sized farms prioritized