Transition grants for farmers leaving livestock behind

New funding opportunities for sustainable crop farming

In an effort to support sustainable farming and address challenges posed by the bird flu crisis, the Physicians Committee is providing grants to farmers transitioning from animal agriculture to crops or orchards. This program aims to facilitate a shift towards more environmentally friendly and health-promoting agricultural practices.

Eligible farmers can receive up to $15,000 to help with their transition, with a focus on those affected by bird flu. Applicants are encouraged to describe their current operations and detail how the grant would be utilized, such as for starting an orchard or crop field.

Roxanne Becker, MBChB, a medical expert at the Physicians Committee, advocates for the health benefits of plant-based farming - “Blueberries, beans, greens, and other plant-based foods grown by U.S. farmers can help people improve heart health, prevent diabetes, and maintain a healthy weight, among other benefits.”

The transition grants are inspired by successful cases like the Giacomazzi family, who have already made significant changes from dairy to almond farming in California. Farmers have until March 3, 2025, to submit their applications. 

This initiative not only helps farmers adapt to a changing agricultural landscape but also supports broader public health and environmental goals by reducing the impact of intensive animal farming, associated with high methane emissions and the spread of zoonotic diseases.