New bill would fund farmer-to-farmer mentoring for conservation practices

What does this do?

The Farmer to Farmer Education Act of 2026 would authorize USDA to sign agreements with nonprofits, universities, tribal and local governments, states, and farmer groups to build mentorship and training networks. These networks would teach farmers science-based conservation methods for soil, water, and forests, with priority given to historically underserved, limited-resource, or high-poverty producers.

Who does it affect?

Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners—especially smaller-scale or underserved producers—along with agricultural nonprofits, universities, tribal organizations, and local governments that could apply for these grants.

Why does it matter?

By formalizing and expanding an existing USDA program, the bill would create new grant-funded mentorship structures that recipient organizations must administer, report on, and pay participants for.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Federal grants to nonprofits, states, tribes
• Subawards allowed for local events
• Participants must be paid fairly