'Protecting Future Farmland Act': Sen. Baldwin co-sponsors new bill managing solar energy

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Wisconsin Democratic Senator Tammy Baldwin and Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley are introducing new legislation for land management in agricultural areas with solar panels. 

The "Protecting Future Farmland Act" looks to manage how solar energy is placed on farmlands so it can still be cultivated in the future. 

Currently, 83% of new solar projects are being built on farm and ranch land, but no federal plan is in place for managing those land below solar arrays. 

The senators say their bill will help keep pollutants out of the soil and crucial waterways. 

“While many farmers are choosing to expand clean, renewable energy – supporting energy independence and increasing revenues of their operation – we need to support our farmers’ land stewardship efforts and help them protect the farmland that is critical to the future of our rural economies and national food security,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to partner with my Republican colleague to lead legislation that will give our farmers who want to expand solar operations the tools they need to continue responsibly managing our soil, water and nation’s heartland.”

“We must be certain that embracing solar doesn’t damage our most valuable commodity: our rich Iowa soil,” said Senator Grassley. “I’m proud to introduce this bill to help the Heartland continue to lead the way in pursuing ag innovation and renewable resource development in a responsible manner.”