Objective
The system is based on a framework combining regulation, voluntary participation and economic incentives.
Description
Saving Tomorrow's Agriculture Resources (STAR) is a non-financial instrument and assessment framework that translates soil health and conservation practices into accessible and standardized indicators. Based on a voluntary approach, it allows for the evaluation and recognition of agricultural practices through a 1- to 5-star rating system, thereby increasing their visibility and recognition. This approach also promotes adaptive governance, based on continuous learning, transparency, and farmer participation in the assessment process. Implemented in the United States, STAR is adapted in Colorado to the specific characteristics of the state's climate, soils, and agricultural systems, including crops, vineyards, orchards, and livestock. Combined with the Colorado Soil Health Program (STAR Plus), it primarily targets producers, farmers, and ranchers and is implemented by the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA), in collaboration with Conservation Districts and other eligible entities. It aims to provide tools and guidance, connect producers to technical, economic and financial resources, and establish a standardized approach to assess progress in conservation, soil health and production systems.
Country
United States
Ladder
Local
Nature
Non-financial
In which law/program is this instrument included?
Soil Health Program
Governance, financing and sustainability of the STAR instrument
The instrument combines several governance mechanisms, regulations, and process standards established by legislation; economic instruments such as incentives and a recognized label; voluntary participation; information strategies; and co-regulation among the CSHP, National STAR, Conservation Districts, CSU Extension, and local NRCS offices. Voluntary membership and self-selection aim to strengthen participation and legitimacy without coercion, while conditionality links benefits to adherence to practices rather than to specific results. Conservation Districts play a central role: they register producers, administer funds locally, distribute reimbursements, and provide technical assistance. Funding combines public and private resources, including state funds, the USDA Climate Smart Commodities Grant, private foundations, and other grants, for incentives, local capacity building, equipment, technical assistance, science, and research. Although STAR is designed as a long-term tool to sustain changes in practices beyond the program, the continuity of incentives depends on available subsidies. It aims to reduce the risks associated with the transition to regenerative practices and to promote lasting changes related to soil health, climate-smart practices, adaptation, and mitigation, including improved drought resilience, more efficient water use, soil cover, reduced evaporation, and improved soil stability.
Source: Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA), Colorado Soil Health Program. Sketch by Karina Branson – ConverSketch.
Chronology of the instrument
