Empowering Climate-Smart Egg Farming in Partnership with USDA

We are thrilled to announce our Climate Smart Egg Project funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) through the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grant program. This $3.6 million grant will empower underserved Amish and Mennonite producers to expand organic pasture-raised egg farming while promoting climate-smart practices in the layer hen industry.

About the Climate Smart Organic Egg Project

The Climate-Smart Organic Egg Project aims to achieve multiple goals:

• Expand Organic Pasture-Raised Egg Farming in collaboration with underserved producers, providing them with the resources and knowledge needed to thrive in this sector.
• Inspire and Educate Consumers about the benefits of climate-smart organic eggs, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture.
• Grow the Market for Climate-Smart Egg Products through partnerships with retailers and marketing initiatives, opening up a new niche market in the United States.

Sustainable Energy Solutions

As part of our commitment to sustainability, we will also facilitate the installation of solar panels, implement energy-efficient barn lighting, manure management systems, and improve ventilation on participating farms. 

Regenerative Practices

To ensure climate-smart production, we will implement a range of regenerative practices, including:

• Pasture Enhancements to promote healthy livestock and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Tree and Shrub Establishment to enhance sustainability and carbon sequestration.
• Cover Crops to improve soil health and reduce erosion.

Our Partners

This ambitious project is made possible through collaboration with key partners who share our commitment to sustainability including:

Costco Wholesale, Organic Voices, Grow Well Consulting, Curva and Associates LLC, University of Kentucky, Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business, Soil Carbon Initiative, Love Just Works LLC

Geographic Focus

Major Commodities

Our project centers around the production of eggs. By supporting the growth of organic pasture-raised egg farming, we aim to contribute to a more sustainable and climate-smart agricultural landscape.

Incentives

Farmers will receive equipment and other incentives for participating.

How to Get Involved

If you are an existing or incoming producer for Handsome Brook Farms or The Farmer’s Hen, we invite you to join us in this exciting initiative. For more information or to express your interest, please contact us at: grantinfo@hbfeggs.com or visit this site to enroll.