Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett, State and Local Leaders Highlight Federal Investments to Bolster Arizona’s Climate-Smart Agriculture Initiatives

(FLAGSTAFF, AZ) – This morning, Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett, Savannah Barteau of Date Creek Ranch, Adrian Keller from Solar United Neighbors (SUN) of Arizona, and Jessie Huff, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Arizona Energy Coordinator gathered to shine a spotlight on the enormous potential brought about by the Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) $40 billion investment for the enhancement of farms, ranches, and rural communities. 

Thanks to the work of climate champions in Arizona’s Congressional delegation and President Biden to pass the IRA, the robust agricultural sector in Coconino County and surrounding areas is now primed to see major benefits from the law’s investments, including approximately $19.5 billion to support existing agricultural conservation programs encouraging climate-smart practices like low-till farming and increased carbon sequestration. The law also includes $14 billion to help rural communities invest in renewable energy and transition to clean energy sources.

Arizona’s agricultural sector contributes more than $23.3 billion to the state’s economy, with farmers and ranchers growing a wide array of fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, and other crops. These products are exported to 70 nations and across America. 

Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett highlighted the broad economic benefits of these new resources. "The IRA doesn’t just represent an investment in our environment—it’s a powerful catalyst for economic growth in Flagstaff,” she stated. “By directing these resources toward sustainable initiatives, we’re not only ensuring a greener future but fostering an environment where our local businesses, farmers, and community members thrive economically. Best of all, we’ll see benefits directed specifically to our rural communities."

Savannah Barteau, Owner and Rancher of Date Creek Ranch, remarked on her personal experience: "Since installing solar panels at Date Creek Ranch, our operations have transformed. Not only do they power our structures, irrigation, and beef freezers, but they’ve made us 150% off the grid. Nobody dictates our power or our water anymore. It’s more than just savings; it’s about autonomy, sustainability, and taking control of our resources while caring for the land that sustains us."

Adrian Keller, Arizona Program Director for Solar United Neighbors (SUN) of Arizona, emphasized the significant advantages of solar for rural communities: "The cost-saving benefits of solar for rural Arizonans are undeniable, especially when you factor in the assistance provided by the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). By offering guaranteed loan financing, grant funding, and covering up to 50% of the project cost for renewable energy systems, REAP presents an unparalleled opportunity for agricultural producers. The IRA will further expand this lifeline with nearly $2 billion in grants and loans. This all means tangible financial savings for Arizona’s rural communities.” 

Speakers at the event also urged federal leaders to not only reject efforts to scale back or redirect investments in climate, but to further expand them in order to reduce pollution to levels scientists say are necessary to mitigate the worst effects of climate change.

A recording of the event is available HERE.