Long-term soil health and agricultural research are crucial in creating a more resilient food system, tracking changes in carbon, and measuring economic benefits. The Washington Soil Health Initiative has invested in research to develop regionally specific best management practices to promote both environmental and economic success through creating six long-term agroecological research and extension (LTARE) sites.

Generating meaningful outcomes in these areas often requires longer-term research efforts that span beyond typical 2-3 year grant cycles, as soil health and agricultural systems evolve slowly over time. Long-term research provides valuable insights into the complex interactions between soil health and agricultural productivity and enables the development of a more resilient food system.