HB5224 - Healthy Soil Act Summary

• Creates the Healthy Soil Program administered by the Illinois Department of Agriculture to promote farming and ranching systems that increase soil organic matter, aggregate stability, microbiology, and water retention.

• Establishes three program components: a soil assessment and education program, a grants program for eligible entities, and other programs as determined by the Department.

• Requires the Department to work with technical assistance providers to conduct soil health assessments, facilitate producer-led workshops, establish a statewide network of soil health champions, and provide ongoing training.

• Directs the Department to award grants to eligible entities for technical assistance to producers and land managers, with priority consideration for young producers, veterans, small farms, and economically disadvantaged communities.

• Authorizes use of appropriated funds for grants, education programs, outreach, staffing, capacity building, soil health research, and other necessary program administration expenses.