A uniform rate of input applications over an entire field can be costly and not maximize the benefits. Sensor-based and variable rate input applications, known as site-specific management, can improve farm profits, soil health and environmental quality.

This week, I'm focusing on another area of USDA activity — rural development. I recently came across an interesting article that discussed the concept of “managed retreat” from climate change and what it could mean for rural communities throughout the country.

The USDA is seeking input from farmers about its new Climate Smart Agriculture and Forestry Initiative, a plan that will allocate $3 billion to support drought resilience and response, animal disease prevention, market disruption relief and purchase of food for school nutrition programs. The deadline to submit comments is Nov. 1, 2021. 

A map created in 2020 by ProPublica offers some food for thought, as it shows projected yield changes in the U.S. for the years 2040-2060 due to increased heat and drought. Spoiler Alert: The southern states, including large parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and even Missouri, could be facing massive yield drops.