Farming and the Environment's Stewardship Principles provide a guiding framework that acts as a foundation for the resource management decisions of farmers and ranchers. These principles were developed by a broad coalition of environmentalists and agriculturalists to foster stewardship on our agricultural lands. 

The purpose of these principles is to protect natural resources by ensuring the health of working agricultural land and promoting the economic vitality of agriculture for future generations.  Producers that adhere to these principles care for the land in a way that respects long-term economic and environmental health and strives to improve valuable natural resources over the long term.

General Stewardship Principles

• Management decisions always include evaluating the impact on natural resources and the environment.
• There is an ongoing development of new management practices to improve stewardship.

Water Quality: Management systems are in place to ensure water quality is protected.

Water Resources: Water management strategies minimize net water consumption.

Pest Management: Pest management strategies minimize the use of all pesticides, herbicides, insecticides and other hazardous materials.

Nutrient Management: Nutrient wastes are managed to maximize on and off-site environmental benefits.

Soil Loss: Soils are managed to prevent erosion.

Soil Quality: Management systems enhance soil quality and positive soil quality indicators are monitored on a regular basis.

Air Quality: Management systems are in place to reduce airborne particulates and particulates that compromise air quality.

Endangered, threatened or species of concern: Habitats of endangered, threatened or species of concern are protected and habitat enhancement is a part of the management system.

Fish and Wildlife: Natural resources are managed to benefit fish and wildlife habitat and enhance species and community diversity.

Energy: Management practices conserve energy and renewable energy systems are encouraged.

Waste Management: Waste products are reused, recycled or disposed in a manner that protects the health of air, water, soil and animals.

Animal Health: The health of livestock and other domesticated animals is maintained through the use of natural systems and humane treatment.

Genetic Diversity: Management decisions enhance the genetic diversity of plant and animal crops.

Farms and ranches that meet 70% of these principles may qualify as Stewardship Farms are be eligible to participate in our Stewardship Programs. Find out how you can apply.