The USDA would establish a national biochar research network — a coordinated effort across at least five universities to study how biochar (a charcoal-like material made from agricultural waste) can improve soil health, sequester carbon, and help farmers. The network would research how different types of biochar affect crop yields, soil biology, and water retention across various climates and soil types. It authorizes $20 million per year for five years. For farmers, the practical question is whether adding biochar to their fields is worth the cost — this research network is designed to provide region-specific answers rather than one-size-fits-all guidance.
Congressional Summary
This bill directs the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) to establish a biochar research network of not more than 20 research sites or facilities to test the impact of biochar across various soil types, application methods, and climates to learn more about its potential to benefit agriculture, forestry, and the environment.Eligible entities for the research network include (1) state agriculture and forestry experiment stations; and (2) research facilities of the ARS, the Forest Service, and the Departments of Energy, Commerce, and the Interior.Biochar is created by heating biomass (e.g., wood, grass, and manure) in a low-oxygen environment and can be applied to soil to sequester carbon and improve soil health.
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- Senate
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Introduced in Senate
- Action Date
- 2025-07-24
- Date Added
- 2026-04-14
- Source
- Congress.gov →
Like reading a bill in plain English?
We're building an app that does this for every bill in Congress and lets you tell your reps how you want them to vote. We're a small team getting ready to launch, and we're trying to show investors that real people want this. Be one of them. Help us get it built. Leave your email and we'll tell you the moment the app is ready.