The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) is a powerful force for change, uniting farmers, conservationists, and advocates to transform America’s food and farming systems. Since 1988, NSAC has been at the forefront of the sustainable agriculture movement, fighting tirelessly to advance policies that support family farmers, protect natural resources, and provide all communities with access to healthy, locally-grown food.
Through its groundbreaking work, NSAC is creating a more resilient, equitable, and prosperous future for agriculture. The coalition champions sustainable farming practices that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and climate resilience, while also advocating for programs and policies that level the playing field for small and mid-sized farmers. From its efforts to secure critical funding for conservation and research programs to its leadership in the Farm Bill process, NSAC is driving meaningful progress toward a more sustainable and just food system.
As we face the urgent challenges of climate change, food insecurity, and rural economic decline, the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition’s mission has never been more important. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, NSAC is building a broad-based movement for change that has the power to transform the way we grow, distribute, and consume food in America. Through its unwavering commitment to sustainability, justice, and innovation, NSAC is charting a path toward a brighter future for farmers, communities, and the planet.
The Roots of NSAC
Grassroots Beginnings
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) traces its roots back to the 1980s when a handful of passionate farmers and advocates came together to champion a more sustainable future for agriculture. What began as a small, grassroots movement quickly gained momentum as more people recognized the urgent need for change in our food system. These early pioneers worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the environmental, social, and economic benefits of sustainable farming practices.
As the movement grew, so did the organization. NSAC formally established itself in 2009, uniting the voices of farmers, ranchers, and sustainable agriculture advocates across the country. By building a strong network of like-minded individuals and organizations, NSAC was able to amplify its message and make a real impact on national agricultural policy. Today, NSAC continues to be driven by its grassroots origins, working closely with farmers and local communities to promote a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient food system for all.
Legislative Victories
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition has been a driving force behind several landmark legislative victories that have advanced sustainable agriculture practices and supported small-scale farmers. One of their most significant achievements was the passage of the Farm Bill, which included provisions for conservation programs, organic agriculture research, and beginning farmer support. NSAC also played a crucial role in securing funding for the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, which has provided grants and education to farmers for over 30 years. Additionally, the coalition successfully advocated for the establishment of the National Organic Program, setting standards for organic certification and labeling. These legislative successes have not only benefited farmers but have also increased access to fresh, locally grown, and organic produce for consumers across the nation. NSAC continues to work tirelessly to shape policies that promote a more sustainable and equitable food system for all.
Advocating for Sustainable Policies
Farm Bill Priorities
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) actively engages in shaping the Farm Bill to prioritize sustainable agriculture practices and support small-scale farmers. One of NSAC’s key priorities is advocating for increased funding for conservation programs that help farmers adopt environmentally friendly practices, such as cover cropping and rotational grazing. NSAC also works to ensure that the Farm Bill includes provisions for beginning farmer training programs and resources to help new farmers establish successful, sustainable operations.
Another critical aspect of NSAC’s Farm Bill efforts is promoting local and regional food systems. The coalition advocates for policies that support the growth of farmers markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, and farm-to-school initiatives. By championing these causes, NSAC aims to create more opportunities for farmers to connect directly with consumers and build thriving local food economies.
NSAC also prioritizes research and extension programs that advance sustainable agriculture practices. The coalition works to secure funding for projects that explore innovative approaches to soil health, pest management, and other critical issues facing farmers. By investing in research and education, NSAC helps to build a strong foundation for the future of sustainable agriculture.
Through its tireless efforts around the Farm Bill, NSAC continues to be a powerful voice for sustainable agriculture, ensuring that the needs of small-scale farmers and environmentally conscious practices are at the forefront of agricultural policy.
Conservation Programs
NSAC champions conservation programs that support farmers in adopting sustainable practices to protect our environment. Through their tireless advocacy, they have helped secure billions in funding for initiatives like the Conservation Stewardship Program, which rewards farmers for implementing conservation activities on their land. NSAC also works to improve the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, making it more accessible and effective for farmers looking to transition to greener practices.
Beyond fighting for robust funding, NSAC collaborates with farmers and partner organizations to identify areas where conservation programs can be strengthened. They push for innovative approaches, such as targeted conservation efforts to address specific resource concerns and increased support for diverse crop rotations and cover crops. By amplifying the voices of farmers on the ground, NSAC ensures these programs are practical, flexible, and responsive to the needs of sustainable agriculture operations nationwide.
Through education and outreach, NSAC empowers farmers with the knowledge and resources to participate in conservation programs successfully. They develop user-friendly guides, host workshops, and provide one-on-one assistance to help farmers navigate the application process and maximize the benefits of these initiatives. By making conservation programs more accessible and attractive, NSAC is helping to build a future where sustainable farming practices are the norm rather than the exception.
Supporting Local and Regional Food Systems
Farm to Fork
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) is a strong advocate for farm-to-fork initiatives that connect local farmers directly with consumers. By supporting these direct marketing channels, NSAC helps small and mid-sized farms thrive while providing communities with access to fresh, sustainably grown produce. One of NSAC’s key efforts is promoting farmers markets, which not only offer a vibrant gathering place for neighbors but also give farmers the opportunity to sell their goods at fair prices. NSAC also champions community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, where consumers can subscribe to receive regular deliveries of seasonal produce from local farms. This model provides farmers with a stable income stream and allows them to plan their crops more efficiently. Additionally, NSAC works to expand farm-to-school programs, ensuring that children have access to nutritious, locally sourced meals while supporting regional farmers. By fostering these direct connections between growers and consumers, NSAC is helping to build a more sustainable and equitable food system that benefits both farmers and communities. Their tireless efforts to strengthen local food networks are creating a brighter future for American agriculture, one where small farms can flourish and people can enjoy the freshest, most delicious produce straight from the source.
Farmers Markets and CSAs
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) is a strong advocate for farmers markets and community supported agriculture (CSA) programs. These direct-to-consumer models provide vital economic opportunities for small-scale, sustainable farmers while increasing access to fresh, locally grown produce for communities. NSAC works to promote and protect these important outlets through policy advocacy, education, and resources.
One key way NSAC supports farmers markets is by advocating for federal programs like the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) and the Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP). These initiatives provide grants to help establish, expand, and promote farmers markets, as well as develop local food enterprises. NSAC also fights to maintain funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, ensuring low-income families and seniors can access fresh, healthy food at their local markets.
For CSAs, NSAC offers resources and guides to help farmers navigate the legal and logistical challenges of starting and running a successful program. They also work to raise awareness about the benefits of CSAs, which directly connect consumers with farmers and often involve a shared risk and reward model. By supporting these innovative direct marketing channels, NSAC is helping to build a more resilient, sustainable food system that values local economies, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.
Unveiling Farmers Market Treasures further explores how these markets connect consumers with local produce.
Empowering the Next Generation of Farmers
Training and Education
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of sustainable farmers through comprehensive training and education programs. NSAC partners with local organizations to offer workshops, webinars, and hands-on learning experiences that cover a wide range of topics, from soil health and water conservation to organic pest management and farm to table marketing. These programs are designed to equip new and aspiring farmers with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the challenging yet rewarding field of sustainable agriculture.
In addition to in-person training, NSAC provides a wealth of online resources, including guides, case studies, and mentorship opportunities. By connecting experienced farmers with those just starting out, NSAC fosters a supportive community that encourages the sharing of best practices and innovative ideas. Through these efforts, NSAC is helping to build a resilient and vibrant sustainable agriculture movement that will benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment for generations to come.
Policy Advocacy
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) is a powerful advocate for policies that support beginning farmers. NSAC works tirelessly to improve access to essential resources like land, credit, and crop insurance for those just starting out in agriculture. By engaging with policymakers and stakeholders, NSAC helps shape legislation and programs that create opportunities for new farmers to thrive. They advocate for increased funding for beginning farmer training programs, more flexible lending options, and crop insurance policies that better serve the needs of diversified, sustainable farms. NSAC also champions initiatives that connect beginning farmers with experienced mentors and local CSA networks, fostering a supportive community for those embarking on a career in sustainable agriculture. Through their policy advocacy efforts, NSAC is helping to build a brighter future for the next generation of farmers committed to environmentally responsible practices.
Conclusion
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition plays a vital role in advancing sustainable agriculture practices and policies across the United States. By bringing together a diverse network of grassroots organizations, NSAC amplifies the voices of farmers, ranchers, and environmentalists working to create a more just and sustainable food system. Through their tireless efforts in research, education, and advocacy, NSAC has been instrumental in shaping federal agriculture policy to better support small and mid-sized farms, promote conservation practices, and foster vibrant rural communities.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the work of NSAC is more important than ever. By supporting their initiatives, we can all play a part in building a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable agricultural system. Whether you’re a farmer, a consumer, or simply someone who cares about the health of our planet and communities, there are many ways to get involved with NSAC. Consider joining one of their member organizations, attending a local event or workshop, or advocating for sustainable agriculture policies in your own community. Together, we can work towards a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.
