The Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT) is excited to be a key partner in the Sonoma-Marin Climate-Smart Agriculture County Climate Coalition (SMACCC), a groundbreaking initiative focused on integrating climate-smart agricultural practices across the region. Supported by a $10 million grant from the USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities program, this project aims to serve as a model for sustainable agriculture, fostering collaboration among local farmers, ranchers, and conservation organizations and agencies over the next five years.

Project Overview

SMACCC is dedicated to addressing the urgent challenges of climate change and food security by promoting climate-smart agriculture (CSA) throughout Sonoma and Marin counties. The project seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance soil health, and strengthen local food systems. By implementing carbon farming practices—such as cover cropping, reduced tillage, and compost application—SMACCC will support the resilience and productivity of our regional landscapes.

This initiative is anchored in the rich history of local conservation partnerships and is designed to be scalable, with the potential to serve as a blueprint for other regions across the state and country. Over the course of the project, SMACCC will support numerous farms and ranches, providing them with the tools and resources needed to adopt and expand CSA practices.

MALT’s Involvement

MALT is actively engaged in the marketing efforts of the Sonoma-Marin Climate-Smart Agriculture County Climate Coalition (SMACCC) to raise awareness and drive demand for climate-smart commodities produced in Marin and Sonoma counties. Leveraging its strong community connections and deep understanding of the local agricultural landscape, MALT is helping to shape the narrative around sustainable farming practices.

In this role, MALT collaborates with SMACCC partners to develop and execute a targeted marketing and storytelling campaign aimed at educating consumers and buyers about the value of climate-smart commodities. 

Additionally, MALT supports the development of a robust regional supply chain for climate-smart products. A key aspect of this work involves creating and implementing a tracking and branding system that ensures transparency and traceability from farm to table. This system not only highlights the environmental benefits of climate-smart agriculture but also builds consumer trust in these products.

MALT is helping to create a strong market presence for sustainably produced goods, ultimately benefiting local farmers and the environment.

Through these marketing efforts, MALT is driving the success of climate-smart agriculture in Marin County and beyond, fostering a deeper connection between consumers and the land.