Regenerative Agriculture: What It Is and What’s Shaping It
The term “regenerative” may be relatively new, but the principles behind it have deep roots in practices that generations of farmers have long followed. Today, however, regenerative agriculture is rapidly gaining support and recognition as a means not just to sustain but actively improve our agricultural systems.
While there is no universal definition of regenerative agriculture, at its core, it moves beyond the idea of “doing no harm” to a more dynamic approach that includes mitigating climate change, building soil health, restoring biodiversity, and contributing to the well-being of people and the planet.
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) recognizes the importance of regenerative practices, noting that these methods have gained attention from producers, retailers, researchers, politicians, consumers, and the media alike. With climate change accelerating, the role of regenerative agriculture is becoming more prominent as it offers viable solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Perspectives from Measure to Improve
To better understand the evolving landscape of regenerative agriculture, our team of experts who have been working on projects in this space, has put together some topics and insights that are important for understanding where we are with regenerative agriculture.
Specialty Cropping Systems vs. Commodity Crops
According to the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) Regenerative Ag working group, regenerative agriculture in specialty cropping systems presents complex challenges. Complexity arises from the diversity of crops, regions, practices, and the specific needs of each operation. Definitions and principles of regenerative agriculture must closely align with the needs and goals of specialty cropping systems. Additionally, identifying metrics and measurable outcomes in order to set standards and verify progress will present unique opportunities and challenges to the industry.
CDFA’s Role in Defining Regenerative Agriculture
The CDFA Regenerative Ag Working Group will present its recommended definition of regenerative agriculture to the California State Board of Food and Agriculture for refinement and potential adoption. The recommended definition, shaped by 3 CDFA working group sessions, 5 public listening sessions, 2 Tribal listening sessions, and 7 months of written public comments, will be outcomes-based and include key regenerative agriculture principles. The board will begin its review of the recommended definition on September 3, 2024 in order to make a final recommendation.
Diverse and Varying Definitions
One challenge in the regenerative agriculture field is the wide range of principles and definitions. The IFPA working group highlights the need for clarity, particularly for farmers and retailers navigating this evolving landscape. Questions about organic certification, livestock integration, and outcome-based definitions are still being discussed across the industry.
Target Outcomes
CDFA has emphasized that regenerative agriculture must achieve measurable outcomes in several key areas including building soil health, restoring water resources, protecting air quality, sequestering greenhouse gases, and fostering wildlife and human health. Importantly, these practices should also respect cultural traditions and promote Indigenous stewardship.
Market and Policy Influence
The demand for regenerative agriculture is being driven by both consumers and retailers. Retailers are increasingly considering regenerative agriculture in their sourcing requirements as consumer awareness grows. Furthermore, discussions around the Farm Bill indicate that regenerative agriculture may become a more prominent focus in national agricultural policy. However, states are currently taking a patchwork approach, with different definitions and practices being adopted across the country.
A Need for Collaboration
The debate around regenerative agriculture highlights the importance of inclusivity. As the IFPA working group points out, farmers and industry stakeholders need a seat at the table to ensure that the definitions and practices adopted reflect the realities of diverse agricultural systems. Additionally, regenerative agriculture must be adaptable to different production systems, eco-regions, and cultural contexts. The CDFA is working toward an inclusive definition that respects these diverse needs.
What’s Ahead for Regenerative Agriculture?
The future of regenerative agriculture is both promising and complex. It offers a path to a more resilient and sustainable food system but requires careful consideration and collaboration across the industry. Achieving regenerative outcomes will demand processes, practices, and innovations customized to specific environments and cultural contexts. This includes integrating the best new research with traditional knowledge, particularly from Indigenous communities who have been practicing forms of regenerative agriculture for centuries.
At Measure to Improve, we believe regenerative agriculture goes beyond sustainability by utilizing practices that actively add value to the environment and farmers. Our Regenerative Agriculture Service—one of Measure to Improve’s core programs and services—is a customized program and approach to help clients identify where to start with regenerative agriculture by highlighting specific opportunities within their growing operation or supply chain.
As the industry continues to evolve, we are committed to supporting the adoption of regenerative practices and are here to support your organization as well.
Learn more at www.measuretoimprovellc.com/regenerative-agriculture-services