CONCORD, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) — The Cheshire County Conservation District is urging lawmakers and the public to support legislation that would provide state funding to help New Hampshire farms adapt to climate-related challenges.

House Bill 246 would support the New Hampshire Conservation Districts Climate Resilience Grant Program, a statewide initiative launched in 2022 to help farmers build resilience against extreme weather, changing growing conditions, and other climate impacts. The program was created after conservation districts identified a gap in available funding, as neighboring states offered similar support while New Hampshire did not.

The grant program is designed to help farms increase food production, improve profitability, and strengthen long-term viability, while also supporting local economies and the state’s agricultural sector.

The bill is currently before the Senate Finance Committee, which is scheduled to hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 17, at 1:25 p.m. in Room 103 at the New Hampshire State House in Concord. The conservation district is encouraging farmers, agricultural organizations, and residents to attend the hearing, submit testimony, or contact committee members to express support for the bill.

Supporters say HB 246 would represent an investment in New Hampshire’s farm businesses and help ensure a strong future for agriculture in the state.