Long Bill funds climate-smart goals

Broomfield, Colo. — As Colorado legislators finalize the content of the state budget, the Colorado Department of Agriculture is praising lawmakers for their support of Governor Polis’ key budget requests that support agricultural communities across the state through passage of the state’s Long Bill. 

The Colorado General Assembly funded several new staff positions that will help drive CDA priorities of advancing resource stewardship, animal health and welfare, and market opportunities for Colorado producers. Included in the Long Bill is funding for at least four new agency staff, including an agricultural water advisor, a biocontrol specialist, a western slope based Bureau of Animal Protection investigator, and a climate marketing specialist to promote Colorado’s leadership in resilience efforts such as soil health. 

“CDA is committed to advancing Colorado agriculture through economic resilience, voluntary stewardship, supporting future generations, and enhancing animal health and welfare,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg. “These new positions will help increase the business opportunities and direct producer support CDA will be able to provide to farmers and ranchers across the state, from planting to promoting your product. CDA thanks Governor Polis and the General Assembly for their support of these key resources for Colorado agriculture.”

The funding approved by the Joint Budget Committee and now the full legislature is critical to supporting the work of Colorado producers in diverse agricultural areas and continuing CDA’s efforts to promote resilient economic processes, working landscapes and agricultural communities.

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