Carbon programs are supposed to be a win-win for producers and the environment. But the lack of federal oversight in voluntary carbon markets has led many to compare the current regulatory systems to the laws of the wild west.  

This lack of clarity has led many farmers to question whether participating in carbon programs is even worth the trouble. 

What are carbon markets? 

Simply put, carbon markets are trading systems in which companies or individuals who emit greenhouse gases can purchase “carbon credits” to offset their emissions. Each carbon credit is equivalent to one ton of carbon dioxide.  

Carbon credits are created by producers who take steps to reduce greenhouse gases. For example, farmers who utilize federally approved practices...