Program development - programs, grants, systems, and inventories and platforms

(1) In consultation with the advisory committee and in accordance with subsection (4) of this section, the department shall establish the following if financial resources are available: (a) A grant program for eligible entities to engage in soil health activities; (b) A system for monitoring the agricultural, environmental, or economic benefits of soil health practices as demonstrated by implementation experience, research projects, demonstration projects, or soil health activities; (c) A state soil health inventory and platform; (d) A soil health testing program; and (e) Other programs the department deems appropriate or necessary to promote soil health practices. (2) (a) In establishing programs in accordance with subsection (1) of this section, the department may prioritize the establishment of programs based on its determination of agricultural producer need and support, the availability of money and staffing, emerging areas of scientific inquiry and research, the degree of environmental benefits, or other considerations deemed appropriate to promote soil health practices. (b) The department shall not make a grant unless the advisory committee approves the grant, including the amount, recipient, and purpose. (3) All programs established under subsection (1) of this section are voluntary and incentive based. The department shall not require: (a) Eligible entities to participate in the soil health program; or (b) Nonparticipating entities to implement soil health practices. (4) Before establishing a program, the department shall provide public notice on the department's official website. The department shall give the public no less than forty-five days to submit written comments after the date of publication on its official website.