Tag Archive for: Fiber

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.

, ,

Cozy Up with Wool

By NCAT Conservation Planner Cody Brown and NCAT Senior Conservation Planner Alisha Horak

If the word ‘wool’ conjures up memories of itchy socks and the scratchy blankets your grandparents would pull out when it got cold, it’s time to modernize your view on this warm, soft, functional fiber! Wool has come a long way in recent years. The wool industry has improved processing methods to increase wool’s versatility and comfort, and consumers are loving it, driving the demand for sustainable fibers. In response, the global woolen textiles market, which was valued at 190.4 billion dollars in 2023, is expected to grow almost eight percent every year between now and 2030.

Close-up photo of medium-gray wool sweater.

Wool is a timeless, sustainable fiber that can be used to make comfortable, functional clothes.

The fibers that make up your wardrobe may all make comfortable, useful clothes, but there are growing concerns about a wide range of environmental impacts these different fibers can have. Synthetic fiber’s elasticity, comfort, and cheap cost of production have made it a fierce competitor with natural fibers since the invention of nylon in the 1930s. However, synthetic textiles can lead to microplastic pollution, among other environmental costs. These concerns are starting an industry-wide shift to seek natural fiber sources with verified benefits to land and climate.

The prevalence of synthetics has led to a decline in the American wool industry and the domestic wool processing infrastructure that supported American wool in the past. This caused wool growers to have an increased dependency on volatile international wool markets. To be more profitable, wool producers and domestic wool processors can work together to serve the market of sustainability-interested consumers.

Close-up photo of a cross-section of wool insulation.

Wool insulation is a sustainable alternative to synthetic insulations and a potential market for coarse wool fibers.

Wool isn’t just for clothes, either. The fashion industry and the fine wool producers that support them are seeing an increase in demand for fine wool (i.e., the softest types of wool with the smallest fiber diameter), but medium and coarse wool producers also have opportunities to serve the sustainable fiber market. Medium and coarse wool can be turned into carpets and insulation, replacing synthetic fibers in our homes.

The best part is, when sheep producers use managed grazing techniques, they can actually build soil health and improve the health of the landscape. NCAT has a wide variety of resources available to help farmers and ranchers produce wool in sustainable, ethical ways, so together we can rebuild the American wool market from the soil up.

Producers and consumers both win with wool. It’s a sustainable material for clothing and other products. Wool’s durability, breathability, and insulative properties make it an easy choice when prioritizing the quality of materials. With a growing demand for sustainability across the nation, NCAT aims to empower wool producers through ATTRA’s sustainable agriculture information service, cost-share incentives, conservation plans, and access to new verified fiber markets that benefit the land, producers, and consumers. 

Additional Resources: 

Climate Beneficial Fiber Project

Tips for Marketing Sheep and Goat Products: Fiber

Building the Market for Climate-Beneficial Wool

Climate Beneficial Fiber Partnership: Introduction for Producers

Voices from the Field Podcast Episode 355. Soil-to-Skin: Rebecca Burgess of Fibershed on Building Community

NCAT Receives $30 Million to Expand Climate Beneficial Wool, Cotton Production

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) and its partners have been awarded four Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grants through the USDA’s historic investment in expanding climate-smart agriculture.

NCAT and its five Climate Beneficial Fiber project partners—Carbon Cycle Institute, Colorado State University Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Fibershed, Seed2Shirt, and New York Textile Lab— will receive up to $30 million to support the expansion of climate-smart wool and cotton production on 135 farms and ranches spread across 2.1 million acres. The project builds on the existing Climate Beneficial™ fiber program, which has a track record of growing America’s ability to produce climate-smart fiber, regenerate our soils, and expand economic opportunities for wool and cotton growers.

“NCAT has a long, trusted history of supporting farmers and ranchers who want to produce sustainably-made products that not only are part of the climate solution, but also strengthen local and regional businesses that buy, make, and sell the products that power America,” said NCAT Executive Director Steve Thompson. “This investment in climate-smart ag will have a tremendous impact across some of this country’s most important sectors.”

Textile and apparel production accounts for up to 10 percent of global carbon emissions, and the industry is moving to meet market demand for improved climate impact across supply chains. Growing concerns about textile-derived microplastics, land-use impacts, and human rights have also prompted an industry-wide shift to seek natural fiber sources with verified benefits to land and climate.

“We are elated for all our partners and the benefit this award will have for the soil systems that provide us clothing and food. This was a very competitive process, and we want to thank the USDA for the honor of being able to scale a body of work that has largely been, to date, held up by farming, ranching, university, and technical assistance providers who have put countless hours of effort into emergent work,” said Fibershed Founder and Executive Director Rebecca Burgess. “Climate Beneficial wool growers took the first risk with us in 2015 and now Climate Beneficial cotton growers are putting themselves out to trial new ways of doing things for the health of the soil. This grant allows us to build out the markets in the ways that we need to, to keep rural communities strong, farmers farming, and ranchers ranching in a way that puts carbon back where it belongs.”

The project expands the existing Climate Beneficial fiber program, an established, market-proven system for sequestering carbon, regenerating soil health and resilience, improving social equity, and bolstering America’s ability to produce fiber. The 20-year greenhouse gas impact of practices implemented on a share of the participating farms during the grant period is projected to be a reduction of at least three million metric tons of CO2. Other benefits will include reduced application of synthetic fertilizers, improved soil health, and increased soil organic matter, water-holding capacity, and enhanced resilience to a changing climate. A newly created, open-source, Carbon Farm Planning and Verification Platform will streamline climate-smart agriculture planning and verification for producers, verifiers, and supply-chain stakeholders alike. The project aims to meet the equity goals of the Justice40 Initiative and will prioritize engagement with traditionally underserved producers.

“We are humbled and appreciative to be working alongside all our partners in this grant award. Most importantly, we look forward to this unprecedented opportunity this grant opens for Black cotton-growing families,” said Founder and CEO of Seed2Shirt Tameka Peoples. “Given the historic impact cotton has had on the African American community in the US, we are happy to see the matched level of commitment by our partners and USDA to ensuring Black cotton farmers are a part of this important work to heal the land and heal farm families and communities, through climate-smart agriculture practices. Our team at Seed2shirt views this as another step in our work towards the equitable value chain of cotton production we are working diligently every day to create.”

In addition to being awarded up to $30 million for the Fibershed project, NCAT is partnering with organizations around the country on the following projects:

  • Farmers for Soil Health Climate-Smart Commodities Partnership | This project proposes to accelerate long-term cover crop adoption by creating a platform to incentivize farmers. The platform will quantify, verify, and facilitate the sale of ecosystem benefits, creating a marketplace to generate demand for climate-smart commodities. Lead Partner: National Fish & Wildlife Foundation Other Major Partners: Farmers for Soil Health (National Corn Growers Association, the United Soybean Board, and the National Pork Board), National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, National Center for Appropriate Technology, National Association of Conservation Districts, Soil Health Institute, University of Missouri, Sustainability Consortium, Data Transmission Network, The Walton Family Foundation | Major Commodities: Corn, Soybeans, Approximate Funding Ceiling: $95,000,000
  • Expanding the STAR Program Across Colorado and the West | This project offers a comprehensive approach that empowers conservation districts and other eligible entities to help build climate-smart markets and provide technical assistance to a diverse range of producers; provides three years of financial and technical assistance to producers; quantifies and verifies climate benefits on behalf of producers; develops a rating as a market signal so participants earn more for products grown with healthy soil practices; and evaluates and validates carbon and soil-water research for the arid West. Lead Partner: Colorado Department of Agriculture Other Major Partners: Champaign County Soil and Water Conservation District, Colorado Association of Conservation Districts & other Conservation Districts, Colorado Open Lands, Colorado State University, National Center for Appropriate Technology, Sangre de Cristo Association of Acequias, Univ. of Idaho, Montana State Univ., New Mexico State Univ., Utah State Univ., Univ. of Wyoming, Audubon Society, Colorado Corn Administrative Committee, Acres USA, Quivira Coalition, Yardstick, Zero Foodprint, Bob’s Red Mill, Quinn Snacks | Major Commodities: Beef, Corn, Grains, Approximate Funding Ceiling: $25,000,000
  • Building Soil, Building Equity: Accelerating a Regenerative Farming Movement in Appalachia and the Southeast | This project seeks to build climate-smart markets and sequester carbon over thousands of acres of Appalachian and rural southeastern land through strategic recruitment from networks of producers. The project will use education, outreach, technical assistance, and incentivizing producers to adopt climate-smart agriculture. Lead Partner: Accelerating Appalachia Other Major Partners: National Center for Appropriate Technology, Kentucky State University, Working Trees from Stanford University’s TomKat Center for Sustainable Energy, Carbon Harvest | Major Commodities: Fruit and Vegetables, Row Crops, Beef, Approximate Funding Ceiling: $20,000,000

-30-

 

THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY has been helping people build resilient communities through local and sustainable solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen self-reliance, and protect natural resources since 1976. Headquartered in Butte, Montana, NCAT has field offices in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Texas. Learn more at NCAT.ORG.