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The Farm Bill shapes the future of American agriculture, touching everything from conservation programs and crop insurance to rural development and nutrition assistance. With the 2025 version currently in progress, Paul Neiffer, CPA and agricultural tax expert, breaks down what landowners should expect. As a landowner himself, Neiffer combines decades of experience with his role as a trusted advisor on farm taxes and policy, offering valuable insights into how this year’s bill will impact farmers, rural economies, and conservation efforts.

What Is the Farm Bill and Why Does It Matter?

The Farm Bill, which Congress passes approximately every five years, is one of the largest pieces of legislation in U.S. agricultural policy. Its reach is vast, with over 13 titles covering everything from commodity subsidies to forestry and rural development. “While most people think the Farm Bill is about farming, the reality is over 80% of the budget is tied to nutrition assistance programs like SNAP,” Neiffer explains. However, for landowners and farmers, it remains a critical economic driver.

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Conservation initiatives form a foundational element of the Farm Bill, offering landowners financial incentives to safeguard natural resources.

For landowners, the Farm Bill offers opportunities to maximize income and preserve land. “If you’re renting farmland, part of the farmer’s ability to pay you fair market rent often depends on the assistance they receive from the Farm Bill,” says Neiffer. Additionally, conservation programs such as the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provide incentives to preserve or enhance land for environmental benefits.

Key Trends in the 2025 Farm Bill

1. A Continuation With Subtle Adjustments

According to Neiffer, the 2025 Farm Bill is expected to reflect continuity with minor enhancements rather than sweeping reforms. “A lot of the provisions from the 2018 bill are being carried forward. We’re not seeing major structural changes, but there are small enhancements that benefit both landowners and farmers,” he says.

One such enhancement includes adjustments to reference prices, which are used to determine federal payments to farmers when market prices fall below a certain threshold. “The reference prices for crops like corn and soybeans may see modest increases, which helps farmers manage rising costs and indirectly supports landowners through more stable rents,” Neiffer explains.

2. Expanded Conservation Incentives

Conservation programs remain a priority, particularly initiatives that promote soil health and wildlife preservation. For instance, CRP payments are expected to see significant increases. “The House has proposed raising the CRP payment limit from $50,000 to $125,000. This is a major change that could allow landowners to enroll more acres in conservation programs,” says Neiffer.

3. Support for Renewable Energy and Green Initiatives

The 2025 Farm Bill builds on previous legislation, offering new opportunities for renewable energy projects on farmland. Programs like the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) are particularly noteworthy. “Through REAP, landowners can get a grant covering up to 50% of the cost of solar or wind projects, and even qualify for a 30% tax credit,” Neiffer notes. “For landowners interested in green energy, this is a big win.”

Navigating the Farm Bill: Practical Advice for Landowners

For landowners, understanding how the Farm Bill applies to their property can feel daunting. However, Neiffer offers practical steps to ensure landowners can make the most of what’s available:

1. Build Local Relationships

“Your local USDA offices, including the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), are your best allies,” advises Neiffer. These agencies help landowners identify which programs they’re eligible for and provide assistance in applying for funding.

2. Stay Educated

Resources such as USDA fact sheets and Neiffer’s own blog, The Farm CPA Report, are excellent tools for staying informed. “I try to post daily updates on farm taxes and programs to help landowners keep up with changes,” says Neiffer.

3. Consult Experts

Landowners shouldn’t hesitate to enlist professional help. “CPAs, attorneys, and consultants who specialize in agriculture can help you structure your operations to maximize benefits from Farm Bill programs,” Neiffer explains. He also recommends finding trusted foresters or agronomists to assist with technical aspects of land and resource management.

Spotlight: Why the Farm Bill Matters for Conservation

Conservation programs are a cornerstone of the Farm Bill, providing landowners with financial incentives to preserve natural resources. For example, CRP pays landowners to retire environmentally sensitive land, while EQIP offers funding for practices that improve soil and water quality.

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By staying well-informed and taking the initiative, you can tap into these programs to boost your land’s value, conserve its resources, and establish a lasting, sustainable legacy.

Neiffer highlights one of his favorite programs: “If you’re interested in ensuring your farmland stays farmland—or even converting it into a wildlife habitat—USDA has easement programs that pay you up to 100% of the land’s fair market value,” he says. “It’s a win-win for landowners who want to preserve the land and still generate income.”

Challenges and Opportunities for Landowners

Despite the benefits, the Farm Bill comes with challenges. “The biggest hurdle for landowners is that these programs are fragmented,” Neiffer admits. “There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and it takes time to figure out what programs you qualify for.”

He recommends patience and persistence. “Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get approved the first time. Many programs are competitive, but reapplying or seeking additional funding sources often pays off.”

Future Trends in Farm Policy

Looking ahead, Neiffer sees a shift toward supporting smaller-scale and specialty farms. “We’re going to see more funding for climate-smart practices and local food systems,” he predicts. Initiatives encouraging cover crops, rotational grazing, and organic farming will likely gain more attention in future bills.

Neiffer also expects stronger incentives for renewable energy projects. “Landowners who are forward-thinking about solar, wind, or biofuel projects will be well-positioned to take advantage of these trends,” he says.

Final Thoughts: Staying Proactive

For landowners, the Farm Bill isn’t just a bureaucratic document—it’s an opportunity. By staying informed and proactive, you can leverage its programs to enhance your land’s value, preserve its resources, and build a sustainable legacy.

“Land ownership is about lifelong learning,” Neiffer emphasizes. “The more you know about these programs, the more opportunities you’ll uncover. Always be willing to ask questions and seek advice.”

For more insights, visit Neiffer’s blog at Farm CPA Report. As the Farm Bill continues to evolve, staying engaged will ensure you can adapt to its changes and make the most of what it has to offer.