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Committee extends soil-health program sunset; advocates highlight $6.3M in leveraged funds
Summary
The committee favorably recommended House Bill 66 to extend the soil health program’s sunset from July 2026 to 2036; witnesses said the program helped leverage about $6,300,000 for research, outreach and education and described agronomic and water-conservation benefits.
House Bill 66, which extends the sunset of Utah’s soil health program from July 2026 to 2036, received a favorable committee recommendation Jan. 27 after sponsor presentation and supportive testimony from agricultural stakeholders.
Sponsor and supporters: Representative Albrecht described HB66 as an interim committee bill to extend the program’s sunset for 10 years. Wade Garrett, vice president of the Utah Farm Bureau, testified in support. Jim Bocat, director of conservation at the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, told the committee the program has helped leverage about $6,300,000 for research, outreach and education and described benefits including improved infiltration, reduced irrigation needs, topsoil preservation and carbon sequestration.
Committee questions and examples: Senators asked for examples of soil-health practices; Bocat cited no-till drilling, cover crops and reduced tillage and described measurable soil-structure improvements observed statewide.
Committee action: Senator Stratton moved to favorably recommend HB66; the motion passed and members later placed the bill on the Senate consent calendar. The committee recorded unanimous support during the hearing.
