WaSHI Annual Report FY25
Saving Tomorrow's Agriculture Resources
The Saving Tomorrow's Agriculture Resources (STAR) program is a free and voluntary program that uses a science-based 1-to-5 STAR rating to evaluate a grower’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. Washington STAR is currently developing a suite of STAR-exclusive financial incentives alongside partners in the supply chain.
Questionnaires are tailored using location- and crop-specific science, environmental outcomes, and agronomic feasibilities, ensuring that STAR remains relevant across diverse farming systems in Washington.
The Washington STAR program entered its second year in FY25, expanding to include producers from additional cropping systems The program will see exciting changes in 2025, including a new Marketing and Incentive Specialist who will support the program by pursuing market opportunities and developing economic incentives for soil health practitioners.
Enrollment is currently available for producers of:
- Grains & legumes (irrigated & non-irrigated)
- Tree fruit
- Juice & wine grapes
Enrollment will soon open for producers of:
- Vegetable row crops
- Root crops
- Grazing systems
Learn more about the STAR program and enroll at agr.wa.gov/star.
Dani Gelardi
Washington State Department of Agriculture