Project Overview
In 2007, the Washington State Legislature requested recommendations to preserve agricultural viability and protect environmentally “critical areas” under Washington’s Growth Management Act. The Ruckelshaus Center was designated to coordinate fact-finding research and facilitate discussions between interested parties. The Center’s goal was to develop solutions, policies, and practices to protect critical areas while supporting agricultural lands.
During the first year of the Agriculture and Critical Areas Project, the Center worked with the interested parties to form an advisory committee, develop ground rules, and exchange ideas. The Center also initiated fact-finding research on critical areas, conservation easements, riparian buffer zones, and more. During the second year, the interested parties crafted an agreement focused on voluntary approaches to agricultural stewardship.
After the Legislature agreed to extend the project, the Agriculture and Critical Areas Committee developed a framework for a voluntary stewardship program. In 2011, Governor Gregoire signed the program into law. Today, the Voluntary Stewardship Program offers counties and agricultural landowners farm-friendly solutions that protect critical areas. Rather than leading with enforcement, counties enrolled in the program use financial incentives to voluntarily engage landowners. Over 25 counties across Washington state currently participate.
Project Reports
Voluntary Stewardship Program Overview (PDF)
Foundational Texts
Legislation creating the Voluntary Stewardship Program
SSB 5248 (PDF) and SSB 6520 (PDF)
Legislation mandating the Center’s involvement
Agriculture and Critical Areas Committee Ground Rules (PDF)
Ground rules adopted by the Committee