This week’s Open Mic guest is USDA Undersecretary Robert Bonnie. As the agriculture department lead for farm production and conservation, Bonnie will play a significant role in administering any new climate or conservation programs offered by U.S. legislators. Proposed pieces of legislation would offer new funds and opportunities for farmers and ranchers nationwide, but have yet to be approved. Bonnie says the USDA will play a significant role in carbon markets meanwhile working to stimulate research toward carbon smart practices. Bonnie responds to the role of land in the Conservation Reserve Program and shares thoughts on acreage goals for the program.