Tag Archive for: Climate Change

Wool Specialist Contractor

Background:

NCAT advances practices in sustainable agriculture and clean energy, reducing poverty, so both people and the environment can flourish.

We envision vibrant, economically strong communities that provide all people with healthy food and clean energy, soil, and water. We share knowledge, build skills, craft practical solutions, and cultivate networks through workshops and convenings, an online resource hub, and multimedia communications.

We are known for providing trusted, human-centered technical assistance in agriculture and energy. We are a national organization that operates locally, with deep ties to the communities and regions we serve. We serve farmers, ranchers, agriculture and energy professionals, people who cultivate local food systems, and those with energy access needs.

NCAT will lead a multi-year project focused on strengthening the sheep and wool industry through the adoption of conservation agriculture practices, improvement in wool quality, and support of wool markets in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New York, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming

Objective:

The Wool Specialist will assist up to 100 wool producers in implementing the project’s Wool Improvement Fund to help access premium wool markets. The Wool Improvement Fund will provide a stipend to producers that will be used to ensure a higher quality product by improving shearing infrastructure and support. To do so, the Wool Specialist will deliver technical assistance to producers to improve wool quality and value. This position will also be the point of contact for wool buyers, participating wool growers, and partners for potential wool sales in the Western region.

Tasks:

  • Provide technical guidance and training via email, phone, and in-person visits to wool producers on best practices for animal husbandry, shearing, fleece handling, and wool preparation to improve fiber quality (grading, classing, and contamination reduction) for targeted markets.
  • Serve as a resource to participating wool growers on production improvement techniques and equipment.
  • Coordinate with project Technical Assistance Providers and other project stakeholders to align wool improvement strategies.
  • Collect necessary documentation and verification from wool growers to successfully establish and deploy the Wool Improvement Fund.
  • Create program materials for the Wool Improvement Fund.
  • Aggregate wool data, such as but not limited to wool bale reports.
  • Coordinate as needed the aggregation of wool from multiple producers to streamline processing and sales, assist in identifying and securing buyers or processors interested in purchasing high-quality wool, and/or facilitate producer access to value-added markets or cooperative marketing arrangements.
  • Maintain records of sales, pricing trends, and buyer feedback to inform ongoing program development.
  • Contribute to quarterly reports by providing updates on wool quality progress, logistical coordination, and market activity.
  • Maintain clear records of producer participation and support provided.
  • Regularly communicate with the project supervisor and participate in project check-in meetings.

Deliverables:

  • Track and report hours worked, and tasks completed in accordance with contract expectations.
  • Ensure full execution and documentation of the Wool Improvement Fund.
  • Contribute to quarterly reports by providing updates on wool quality progress, logistical coordination, and market activity.
  • Maintain clear records of producer participation and support provided.
  • Additional deliverables may be outlined in the final contract.

 

Contract Term: 

NCAT expects to contract a Wool Specialist for the life of the project (Spring 2026 through March 2028). The estimated level of effort is an average of 60 hours a month, busier in winter/spring, up to a maximum of 2,000 hours for contract term.

Location:

The contractor must be located in California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, or Wyoming.

 

Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience in wool production, sheep husbandry, or fiber quality improvement
  • At least 2 years’ experience in wool grading, classing, and processing standards.
  • Experience with logistics coordination, aggregation, and transport of agricultural commodities preferred.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with wool supply chain; shearers, wool help, producers, processors, and buyers.
  • Demonstrated experience in program coordination.
  • Strong organizational skills and self-directed time management.
  • Ability to travel as needed, estimated 15% of the time.

 

Requirements:

  1. The contractor must have general business liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000 and provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before the agreement can be fully executed.
  2. The contractor must provide their own equipment and tools to fully execute the scope of work, including office space, computer equipment, email account, strong internet connectivity, etc.
  3. Availability to travel occasionally to deliver technical assistance. Travel and costs will be organized by NCAT.

 

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Interested individuals should submit a proposal by submitting the following documents to jobs@ncat.org

The following documents must be included:

  • “Wool Specialist Proposal” consisting of a CV
  • A narrative, not to exceed two pages, including:
    • One’s hourly rate.
    • Statement confirming that the applicant meets the requirements listed.
    • Responses detailing how the applicant can meet the scope of work.
    • Statement that the proposal is valid for 90 days.
  • Names and contact information for two professional references.

Short-listed applicants will be invited to an interview. The deadline for proposals is 5PM Mountain Time on February 9, 2026.

Applicants are encouraged to visit www.ncat.org  to learn more about NCAT.

Questions about the application process can be directed to:

Cassie Lindau, Human Resources Manager

e-mail:  jobs@ncat.org

(406) 494-8644

Project Director Assistant

NCAT advances practices in sustainable agriculture and clean energy, reducing poverty, so both people and the environment can flourish.

We envision vibrant, economically strong communities that provide all people with healthy food and clean energy, soil, and water.

We share knowledge, build skills, craft practical solutions, and cultivate networks through workshops and convenings, an online resource hub, and multimedia communications. We are known for providing trusted, human-centered technical assistance in agriculture and energy.

We are a national organization that operates locally, with deep ties to the communities and regions we serve. 

We serve farmers, ranchers, agriculture and energy professionals, people who cultivate local food systems, and those with energy access needs.

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is seeking a full-time, Hourly Project Director Assistant who will support a multi-year project focused on wool producers in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New York, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming to strengthen their market access by providing high-level administrative and operational support to the Project Director. This position will work closely with NCAT personnel, subrecipients, subcontractors, external partner organizations, and producers to ensure smooth project operations.

This position is tied to a grant-funded project that is scheduled to conclude March 2028. Employment is contingent upon the continuation of project funding.

This is a remote position with preference in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, business administration, communications, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered. Prior experience in project coordination, grant management, and/or executive-level administration support is required.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Commitment to and passion for the NCAT mission.
  • Strong interest and knowledge of mission-driven or nonprofit organizations.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • High attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
  • Proactive and self-motivated.
  • Flexible and adaptable to change.
  • Strong Interpersonal skills.
  • Able to prioritize and manage time effectively under tight deadlines.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Promote and support NCAT’s mission.
  • Support the day-to-day project operations with a task-oriented approach, ensuring deadlines and deliverables are met.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain efficient processes and procedures to improve project workflow.
  • Track budgets, monitor spending, and assist with financial reporting for project deliveries.
  • Act as a liaison and coordinator across project teams, internal staff, and external partners.
  • Manage calendars, schedule meetings, prepare agendas, take meeting notes, and follow up on action items.
  • Assist in planning, scheduling, and monitoring project timelines, deliverables, and milestones.
  • Help prepare project documentation, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Track project progress using project management tools and update records accordingly.
  • Maintain organized project files, records, and documentation.
  • Create and maintain project management systems and oversee a partnership-wide work plan.
  • Implement project management best practices under the guidance of the Project Director.


SALARY AND BENEFITS:
$27.00 to $31.00 hourly, depending on location, qualifications, and experience. Excellent benefits include a flexible schedule, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a cafeteria, and a 401(k) plan.


APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged. Applicants can visit www.ncat.org  to learn more about NCAT.

All interested applicants must apply by submitting a current resume and cover letter that highlights relevant skills and experience aligned with the listed qualifications.

To apply, please visit our workforce page and choose Project Director Assistant.

Questions about the application process can be directed to:

Cassie Lindau, Human Resources Manager
e-mail: jobs@ncat.org
(406) 494-8644

 NCAT is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Project Operations Coordinator

NCAT advances practices in sustainable agriculture and clean energy, reducing poverty, so both people and the environment can flourish.

We envision vibrant, economically strong communities that provide all people with healthy food and clean energy, soil, and water. We share knowledge, build skills, craft practical solutions, and cultivate networks through workshops and convenings, an online resource hub, and multimedia communications.

We are known for providing trusted, human-centered technical assistance in agriculture and energy.

We are a national organization that operates locally, with deep ties to the communities and regions we serve. We serve farmers, ranchers, agriculture and energy professionals, people who cultivate local food systems, and those with energy access needs.

NCAT is seeking a full Time, Hourly, Project Operations Coordinator who will be on a team of a multi-year project focused on wool producers in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New York, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming to strengthen their market access by providing operational support related to contract management, managing incentive payments, developing and tracking project benchmarks and deliverables, and preparing donor reports.

This position is tied to a grant-funded project that is scheduled to conclude March 2028.

This is a remote position. Applicants are required to live in one of the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, or Wyoming. Relocation support is not provided.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in business administration, non-profit management, or a related field; experience in project coordination, grant administration, or program management is a plus.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Commitment to and passion for the NCAT mission.
  • Strong interest and knowledge of mission-driven or nonprofit organizations.
  • Experience in project and/or grant management.
  • Proficiency in data management, tracking progress, and ensuring project completion.
  • Ability to develop and implement clear procedures and processes.
  • Working knowledge of computer systems and related software applications.
  • Highly self-motivated with strong organizational skills.
  • Collaborative team player with excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Experience drafting contract deliverables, monitoring compliance, and managing renewal schedules.
  • Experience in the agriculture sector is a plus.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Promote and support NCAT’s mission
  • Collect and review documentation for producer incentive payments, confirming eligibility and calculating payment amounts based on program criteria.
  • Collaborate with finance and accounting teams to ensure accurate and timely disbursement of incentive payments.
  • Monitor progress toward project benchmarks and milestones, updating tracking systems regularly with status information.
  • Assist with upkeep and management of project data management platform.
  • Identify potential delays or risks in project timelines and proactively communicate them to project leadership.
  • Assist in preparing and compiling data for quarterly reports, including narrative summaries and financial updates for stakeholders.
  • Maintain well-organized files for reports, contracts, and supporting documentation to ensure compliance and accessibility.
  • Schedule, coordinate, and facilitate project meetings, prepare materials, and maintain accurate records of discussions and action items.
  • Serve as a liaison between project staff, finance teams, and external partners to support effective communication and collaboration.
  • Provide comprehensive administrative and coordination support to project managers and directors in advancing project goals.

 

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
$23.00 to $26.00 hourly, depending on location, qualifications, and experience. Excellent benefits include a flexible schedule, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a cafeteria, and a 401(k) plan.

 

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged. Applicants are encouraged to visit ncat.org. All interested applicants must apply by submitting a current resume and cover letter that highlights relevant skills and experience aligned with the listed qualifications.

To apply, please visit our workforce page and choose Project Operations Coordinator.

Questions about the application process can be directed to:

Cassie Lindau, Human Resources Manager
jobs@ncat.org
(406) 494-8644

NCAT is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Technical Assistance Provider (4)

NCAT is a non-profit organization whose mission is to advance solutions in regenerative agriculture and clean energy so that both people and the land can flourish. NCAT operates locally, with deep ties to the communities and regions we serve. We share knowledge, build skills, craft practical solutions, and cultivate networks through workshops and convenings, an online resource hub, and multimedia communications. We are known for providing trusted, human-centered technical assistance in agriculture and energy.

NCAT is seeking four (4) full-time Technical Assistance Providers who will be on the implementation team of a multi-year project focused on wool producers in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming to strengthen their market access. Technical Assistance Providers work directly with targeted wool producers with resources for improving wool quality, soil health, drought resiliency, and market access improvement

This position is remote, and the employee must be based in one of the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Relocation support is not provided.

This position is tied to a grant-funded project that is scheduled to conclude March 2028. Employment is contingent upon the continuation of project funding.

QUALIFICATIONS:

This position requires a BA/BS degree in agriculture, animal science, natural resource management, conservation, or related fields. Experience in building soil health through regenerative ranching and farming; and demonstrated competence/certification in whole farm planning, such as NRCS conservation planner certification.

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Commitment and passion for the NCAT mission.
  • Strong knowledge of animal agriculture in the West and familiarity with ag-related organizations and government agencies.
  • Understanding or willingness to learn about the sheep and wool industry.
  • Experience working for or with the NRCS.
  • Experience in providing technical assistance for conservation agriculture practices.
  • Experience working with land managers and agricultural producers in conservation planning, soil health planning, and implementation.
  • Competence in GIS mapping, data management, and using software such as the Web Soil Survey and the Rangeland Analysis Platform.
  • Competent with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of western ecology, plants, wildlife, soils, and climate.
  • Excellent attention to detail and demonstrated verbal and written communication skills.
  • Exceptional ability to communicate and build relationships with farmers, ranchers, community organizations, government agencies, partners, private contractors, and the general public.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Self-directed and organized with the ability to multitask to meet multiple deadlines.
  • Exceptional ability to work productively both independently and in a collaborative team setting.
  • Familiarity with the sheep and wool industry is preferred.
  • Ability to conduct on-farm fieldwork in challenging terrain, weather, and climate conditions while carrying up to 30 pounds.
  • Willingness and ability to travel around the region. Travel may involve flexible work hours, including evenings and weekends. Some overnight travel will be required.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Promote and support NCAT’s mission.
  • Enroll woolgrowers in the program and ensure producer eligibility by gathering necessary documents.
  • Assist woolgrowers to implement conservation practices, best practices to improve wool quality, and increase market access opportunities.
  • Complete NRCS Environmental Evaluations in accordance with NRCS standards.
  • Provide regionally appropriate technical assistance to woolgrowers via in-person site visits, phone, and email.
  • Monitor conservation practice implementation, monitoring, and measure and report on necessary information to the USDA.
  • Collect data and contribute to quarterly project reports towards benchmarks and goals.
  • Work closely with producers to gather necessary documentation and administer incentive funds, such as but not limited to the Wool Quality Improvement Fund and Market Innovation Fund.
  • Present at conferences, producer association meetings, stakeholder meetings, and other appropriate forums.
  • Administer program details to project participants and maintain their confidential records and information.
  • Develop and maintain positive, productive, professional relationships with producers, partner organizations, agencies, research institutions, and Tribes as part of program delivery.
  • Create outreach and promotional materials, such as press releases, blog posts, and podcasts.
  • Cultivate positive, inclusive, and productive relationships internally with teammates, working collaboratively within the NCAT team and across NCAT as a whole. Teamwork is an essential function of this job.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
This position offers a salary range of $63,000 to $67,000 based on experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged. Applicants are encouraged to visit www.ncat.org to learn more about NCAT.

All interested applicants must apply by submitting a current resume and cover letter that highlights relevant skills and experience aligned with the listed qualifications.

To apply, please visit our workforce page and choose Technical Assistance Provider.

Questions about the application process can be directed to:
Cassie Lindau, Human Resources Manager
jobs@ncat.org
(406) 494-8644

NCAT is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Producer Lead

NCAT is a non-profit organization whose mission is to advance solutions in regenerative agriculture and clean energy so that both people and the land can flourish. NCAT operates locally, with deep ties to the communities and regions we serve. We share knowledge, build skills, craft practical solutions, and cultivate networks through workshops and convenings, an online resource hub, and multimedia communications. We are known for providing trusted, human-centered technical assistance in agriculture and energy.

NCAT is seeking a full-time Producer Lead to oversee producer outreach and serve as the primary point of contact for Technical Assistance Providers. This role is central to advancing the sheep and wool industry by supporting conservation agriculture practices, improving wool quality, and strengthening wool markets. The Producer Lead will lead an implementation team of a multi-year project focused on wool producers in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming to strengthen their market access. The Producer Lead will collaborate with NCAT’s project team, external partner organizations, and agricultural producers to ensure the successful delivery of outreach, education, market improvement, and technical assistance. This position will lead producer engagement efforts, coordinate logistics, and implement communication strategies to provide accessible resources and guidance on program participation.

This position is remote, and the employee must be based in one of the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Relocation support is not provided.

This position is tied to a grant-funded project that is scheduled to conclude March 2028. Employment is contingent upon the continuation of project funding.

QUALIFICATIONS:

This position requires a BA/BS in agriculture, environmental science, natural resource management, conservation, or a related field and a minimum of five years of farming experience. Equivalent experience, such as extensive farming, leadership in agricultural projects, or specialized training, will also be considered.

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Commitment and passion for the NCAT mission.
  • Strong interest and knowledge of mission-driven or nonprofit organizations.
  • Experience in contracting, grant management, and compliance.
  • Strong knowledge of farming and/or ranching systems, ideally in the context of conservation or sustainability.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse producer communities.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to build trust and maintain relationships with producers and partners.
  • Organizational skills for managing schedules, events, and project deliverables.
  • Familiarity with NRCS programs or other agricultural assistance programs.
  • Experience working with technical assistance providers or in a coordination/liaison role.
  • Ability to create processes and track progress of multiple projects in various stages and different states.
  • Collect data and contribute to quarterly project reports towards benchmarks and goals.
  • Create outreach and promotional materials, such as press releases, blog posts, and podcasts.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop and lead outreach strategy to producers to inform them about available services, programs, and incentives.
  • Serve as the main point of contact for Technical Assistance Providers regarding outreach strategy, logistics, and producer coordination.
  • Facilitate communication between Technical Assistance Providers and producers to ensure a smooth implementation of services.
  • Develop and implement processes for producer enrollment, ensuring program eligibility by gathering necessary documents.
  • Assist with scheduling visits, technical assistance, and follow-up actions.
  • Serve as the main point of contact for project partners on Wool Improvement Stipend and Market Innovation Fund.
  • Oversee and administrate Technical Assistance Providers in deploying the Wool Improvement Stipend.
  • Oversee and administrate Technical Assistant Providers in deploying the Market Innovation Fund.
  • Gather necessary information for USDA reporting.
  • Assist in project-wide process development and tracking of deliverables. Lead project planning and outreach and education methods.
  • Provide accessible educational materials for program presentations and outreach events.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
This position offers a salary range of $68,000 to $73,000 annually, depending on location, qualifications, and experience. Excellent benefits include a flexible schedule, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a cafeteria, and 401(k) plan.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged. Applicants are encouraged to visit www.ncat.org to learn more about NCAT.

To apply, please visit our workforce page and choose Producer Lead.

Questions about the application process can be directed to:
Cassie Lindau, Human Resources Manager
jobs@ncat.org
(406) 494-8644

NCAT is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Butte-Silver Bow and Partners Launch Resilient Butte Project

Butte-Silver Bow is partnering with the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) and Montana Technological University to develop a community Sustainability and Resilience Plan. County residents are invited to provide input, learn about the issues, and sign up for project working groups.

The bipartisan infrastructure bill recently passed by Congress represents the nation’s biggest investment in clean energy and providing local communities with the tools to fight climate disruption. These investments have the potential to boost local economic development tied to new sources of energy and to help communities prepare for climate change impacts such as drought, wildfire, and heat waves.

“There are going to be opportunities to boost our economy through new energy development, and Butte is well situated to benefit,” said Butte-Silver Bow Chief Executive J.P. Gallagher. “But we need to do this in a way that works best for our community, and that means planning ahead.” He said that this would include identifying potential locations and infrastructure needs for renewable energy developments such as solar, energy storage systems, or green hydrogen industries. Community engagement will help inform updates to BSB’s zoning code and the county’s Comprehensive Plan.

Gallagher also announced that BSB will participate in a National Science Foundation pilot project for community-based climate adaptation planning. Community workshops will be scheduled in the spring to identify critical community issues and develop local solutions. Several potential issues have been discussed by the three project partners, but priority focus areas will be guided by public input.

BSB residents are encouraged to take an online community survey to prioritize issues of concern, identify development opportunities, and sign up to get involved in the Resilient Butte project. The 5-minute survey is available at www.surveymonkey.com/r/ResilientButte.

One issue of concern is the health risk to vulnerable groups from increasingly smoky summers and the future likelihood of severe heat waves, such as the one that killed hundreds of people last summer in Washington and Oregon. Another vulnerability is growing wildfire risk to Butte’s municipal watersheds in Basin Creek, Moulton and the Big Hole. Concerns also have been raised about the long-term stability of reclamation areas on the Butte Hill as hotter, drier summers desiccate sites that have been revegetated. Butte also may experience population growth as people move away from climate impacts elsewhere, such as megafires in California or coastal flooding.

The adaptation workshops in late spring will be informed by the Montana Climate Assessment, developed by Montana universities to evaluate climate trends and projected impacts to Montana agriculture, forests, water resources, and public health. The workshops will be led by EcoAdapt, a nonprofit in Washington state, and Virginia Tech University, which jointly received a National Science Foundation award to determine the best approach for community-based planning for climate solutions. Butte is among eight communities across the nation selected to participate in this pilot project.

Montana Tech faculty and students will provide technical expertise and research to support the project. The project will tap Tech’s expertise in restoration ecology, environmental engineering, and watershed education. Engineering students will assist with a community energy assessment and greenhouse gas inventory. On March 23, the Montana Tech Public Lecture Series will feature Dr. Cathy Whitlock, a Montana State University Regents Professor and lead author of the Montana Climate Assessment.

“Montana Tech appreciates the opportunity to partner with Butte-Silver Bow, NCAT and our community to support a healthy and prosperous future,” said Chancellor Les Cook. “There are issues that we need to address, and there are new opportunities that we would be wise to consider.”

NCAT will coordinate community participation and educational programs, said Executive Director Steve Thompson. “NCAT provides technical assistance across the nation to develop practical solutions in support of community sustainability, regenerative agriculture, and clean energy. We have offices in 10 states, but Butte has been our headquarters for 46 years. We look forward to supporting our hometown through the Resilient Butte project.” 

NCAT AmeriCorps VISTA member Rylie Yaeger will be help coordinate opportunities for local residents to get involved in the planning process. “We’re inviting community members to participate in conversations about sustainability, climate resilience and economic development opportunities for Butte,” Yaeger said.

To learn more or get involved, contact Rylie Yaeger at Ryliey@ncat.org or 494-6644. Or find Resilient Butte on Facebook or Instagram.

Farmers Speak Out on Climate Solutions

By Jeff Schahczenski, NCAT Agricultural and Natural Resource Economist


American farmers are stepping up to demonstrate that agriculture can be an important part of the climate solution by improving the resilience of America’s food system, reducing emissions, and facilitating on-farm production of renewable energy. Now, thousands of U.S. farmers and ranchers have signed a joint letter calling on partners in the private and public sector to help advance these solutions and invest in our rural and agricultural communities.

One farmer who signed onto the letter is Nina Prater, a soil health specialist for the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) and a farmer in Cedarville, Arkansas. “As a farmer, I understand first-hand how intricately my livelihood—and the entire system of food production—is tied in with nature. Climate change is throwing all natural patterns out of order, and this disrupts our ability to produce food in an economically viable way. Farmers are uniquely positioned to help solve the problem of climate change through soil carbon sequestration,” Prater said.

NCAT encourages other farmers and ranchers to add your name to the letter. There is a version in English and a version in Spanish. You can read the letter at these links and add your name.

Montana farmers Doug and Anna Crabtree. Photo: Courtesy of Vilicus Farms

Montana farmers Doug Crabtree and Anna Jones-Crabtree. Photo: Courtesy of Vilicus Farms

In November 2019, NCAT agriculture economist Jeff Schahczenski co-authored a major report on agriculture and climate change that identified federal policy initiatives that would support farmers who are committed to being part of the climate solution. The report, published by the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, identifies policy opportunities to:

• build soil organic matter, soil health, and agricultural resilience;

• sequester C in soil and above-ground biomass;

• reduce greenhouse gas emissions;

• use resources sustainably; and

• maximize energy conservation.

NCAT is working with NSAC and its 116 member groups to make sure farmers have a direct voice in the national conversation about climate solutions in agriculture. In just a few months, more than 2000 farmers and ranchers from nearly every state have signed the letter. We have been overwhelmed with the response and want to build on this momentum!

If you are a food producer, please add your voice by April 15. Email addresses and contact information captured through the Google forms document will not be shared, sold, or retained by NSAC or any other party. Click here to read the letter and add your name.

Later this spring, NCAT, NSAC and partner groups will share this Farmer Letter on Climate Change in meetings with members of Congress, USDA program leaders, and other key decision-makers to urge effective policy action to combat climate change, and especially to help farmers and ranchers weather the storm and lead the way towards a more resilient future.

If you have any questions about the letter, contact Jeff Schahczenski at jeffs@ncat.org.