California Program Expands Access to Land and Climate-Smart Farming Support

Across California, a growing initiative is working to reshape the future of agriculture by expanding access to land and climate-smart farming support.

The Climate Action Land Equity (CALE) program, led through UC Agriculture and Natural Resources, is designed to help farmers, ranchers, and land stewards—particularly those from historically underserved communities—gain greater access to land ownership, technical assistance, and long-term agricultural resources.

Program leaders say many aspiring and current farmers face barriers to securing land, especially younger generations and communities that have been historically underrepresented in agriculture. CALE aims to address those challenges by connecting growers with tools that support land security and climate-resilient practices.

Participants in the program highlight the importance of regenerative farming methods, including reduced reliance on chemical inputs, as a way to restore soil health and promote sustainability.

Officials say the initiative is focused on building long-term stability for working lands while ensuring agriculture in California remains inclusive and adaptable in the face of climate change.

The program also emphasizes partnerships and education to help growers implement climate-smart strategies that can be sustained for future generations.

More information about the initiative and available resources is offered through UC ANR’s Climate Action and Land Equity program.