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Saving Tomorrow's Agriculture Resources |
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 The STAR (Saving Tomorrow’s Agriculture Resources) program is gaining traction in Washington and beyond—providing a free, science-based tool to evaluate the conservation impact of farm management practices.
Developed in response to producer requests for tools that improve both soil health and farm profitability, STAR supports a future where soil health practices are both practical and financially viable.
What is STAR?
Washington STAR is a FREE and voluntary program that uses a science-based 1-to-5 STAR rating system to evaluate a participant’s engagement in conservation. Participants are connected to local technical and financial assistance to help them maintain or improve their STAR scores. The program has been developed by a diverse coalition of commodity groups, researchers, conservation districts, and producer networks.
At the heart of STAR is the Conservation Innovation Plan—a step in the STAR web tool that connects producers directly to local and national resources for customized support. Through this framework, STAR helps producers plan and improve their soil health practices. Additionally, Washington STAR is currently developing a suite of STAR-exclusive financial incentives along with partners in the supply chain. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities!
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Why should you use STAR?
Many Washington producers are eager to implement soil health practices but face economic barriers to experimentation and long-term adoption. STAR addresses this by:
✅ Connecting you to technical and financial resources
✅ Offering a standardized way to evaluate conservation practices
✅ Helping you qualify for incentive programs
✅ Providing a roadmap for long-term soil health success
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Enrollment is live!
STAR has recently launched a new online tool that allows producers to assess conservation practices by crop type. You can access it today at: https://startool.ag
Enrollment is currently available for producers of:
- 🌾 Grains & Legumes (irrigated & non-irrigated)
- 🍎 Orchards & Vineyards
In Fall 2025, enrollment will open for producers of:
- 🥕 Vegetable Row Crops
- 🐄 Grazing Systems
These tools are tailored by crop-specific advisory committees, ensuring that STAR remains relevant across diverse farming systems in Washington.
Get STARted today!
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Visit https://startool.ag to explore the tool, complete a STAR assessment for your field, and take the first step toward enhanced soil health and conservation incentives. |
Want to learn more?
Let STAR illuminate your pathway to sustained conservation. 🌱
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The STAR program is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA). The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available at www.climate.wa.gov. |
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