Research for Healthy Soils Act

Research for Healthy Soils Act

This bill includes research on the agricultural impacts of microplastics in land-applied biosolids on farmland as a Department of Agriculture (USDA) high-priority research and extension area. Microplastic is a plastic or plastic-coated particle that is less than 5 millimeters in size.

The bill specifically allows grants for carrying out or enhancing research in this area (e.g., through the development or analysis of wastewater treatment techniques to filter out or biodegrade microplastics from biosolids intended to be used for agricultural purposes).

Further, the bill reauthorizes USDA grants to support competitive specialized research and extension activities, including high-priority areas, through FY2028. The bill also specifically reauthorizes through FY2028

• the Pulse Crop Health Initiative;
• the Comprehensive Food Safety Training Network;
• pollinator protection research and extension grants;
• increased USDA capacity and infrastructure to address and conduct research on colony collapse disorder and other pollinator issues; and
• a USDA-conducted nationwide honey bee pest, pathogen, health, and population status surveillance program.

Bill 118 s 3623, also known as the Research for Healthy Soils Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to promote research and innovation in the field of soil health in order to improve agricultural practices and sustainability.

The bill proposes the establishment of a competitive grant program within the Department of Agriculture to fund research projects focused on improving soil health. These projects would aim to develop new techniques and technologies for soil conservation, nutrient management, and carbon sequestration.

Additionally, the Research for Healthy Soils Act seeks to increase collaboration between government agencies, universities, and private sector organizations in order to share knowledge and best practices related to soil health. This would help to ensure that research findings are effectively disseminated and implemented by farmers and other stakeholders. Overall, the Research for Healthy Soils Act is designed to support efforts to protect and enhance the health of our nation's soils, which are essential for sustainable agriculture and food security. By investing in research and innovation in this area, the bill aims to help farmers improve their productivity and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.