Farm Verification Standard
Version 2.0
The Farm Commitment & Verification Standard outlines the detailed requirements for Farmers to:
Develop and implement three-year Field Plans that address the SCI Regenerative Pillars.
Target continuous improvement over a baseline, and
Track and report Soil Health Outcomes.
Continue scrolling to find the supporting guidance documents, including:
Soil Testing Guidance & Methodology
Pesticide Use Guidance
Nutrient Stewardship Guidance
SCI’s 7 Pillars of Regenerative Management
Central to the SCI Farm Standard
The Pillars create farm resilience by maximizing natural resources and minimizing external inputs while revitalizing farms. These Pillars align with readily accepted soil health principles and market expectations, and are key to the SCI farmer’s field plans and continuous improvement plans.
SCI Soil Testing Guidance & Methodology
Version 1.2
The SCI Soil Testing Guidance & Methodology is an accompaniment guidance document to the Farm Commitment & Verification Standard and provides an overview of the soil sampling methodology and soil testing directions needed to comply with the Farm Standard. It is important to note that this document does not supersede any requirements for soil testing outlined in the Farm Standard.
This document provides guidance on:
Soil Testing
Methodology & Process, including protocol centered around Soil Health Monitoring Points (SHMP)
Field Testing
Published: April 2025
SCI Pesticide Use Guidance
Newly published!
As an accompaniment guidance document to the SCI Verification Standard, the SCI Pesticide Use Guide details use restrictions and risk mitigation measures required for farms verified in the Soil and Climate Health Commitment & Verification Program for pesticides and pesticide classes posing high risks and hazards.
It is intended as a resource for auditors and certified growers to understand human and environmental hazards and risks associated with pesticide use, as well as strategies to mitigate relevant risks.
Published: April 2025
SCI Nutrient Stewardship Guidance
Newly published!
As an accompaniment guidance document to the SCI Verification Standard, the Nutrient Stewardship Guide is part of the Soil and Climate Health Commitment & Verification Program. It is designed to help farmers develop a comprehensive Nutrient Stewardship Plan that aligns with SCI’s Regenerative Pillar, Reducing Synthetic Inputs. This guidance is based on the NRCS’s SMART Nutrient Management: Save Money and Protect Water Quality publication.
The goals of this guide serve multiple purposes:
Assessment and Planning: It helps producers coordinate soil tests and field mapping to understand their soil's specific needs and identify different management zones.
Right Source, Rate, Time, and Place: The template guides farmers in selecting appropriate nutrients, calculating precise nutrient requirements, timing applications effectively, and targeting nutrient placement to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
Monitoring and Adjusting: It emphasizes the importance of regular monitoring and adjustments based on soil and crop health to ensure the effectiveness of the nutrient management plan as part of the ongoing verification process.
Documentation: It provides a structured approach to maintaining detailed records.
Published: April 2025
