Biochar Research Network Act of 2025

This bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture to create a national biochar research network with up to 20 sites across different soils, climates, and farm and forest conditions. The network would test many kinds of biochar and ways to apply it, with goals like storing more carbon in soil, improving crop production, handling extreme weather, boosting soil and ecosystem health, conserving natural resources, and helping farms be more profitable. It would also share clear, region-specific guidance with farmers, ranchers, foresters, land reclamation managers, urban land managers, and related businesses on how to produce and use biochar in cost‑effective, practical ways.

The work would cover agriculture, horticulture, rangeland, forestry, and other uses, and include cross‑site studies and pilot projects to fill knowledge gaps, predict outcomes (like plant growth, soil health, water quality, greenhouse gases, and costs), and guide safe, efficient biochar production and application methods. Data would also support selection of local feedstocks and reactor designs and help avoid unintended consequences by improving testing methods.

• Who is involved: State agricultural or forestry experiment stations; USDA research facilities; and research facilities at the Departments of Energy, Commerce, or the Interior can be selected to participate. The network would be run by USDA’s Agricultural Research Service with partners across multiple agencies, and USDA may update conservation standards and coordinate program support based on the research.
• What changes: Creates a national research network to test and guide biochar use, and provides practical information to land managers and businesses.
• When and funding: Authorizes $50 million per year for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to carry out this work.