STA: Celebrating 20 Years!

We are excited that the Seal of Testing Assurance Program (STA), is celebrating its 20th year! 

The program was created in 2000 and is the consensus of many of the leading compost research scientists in the United States. There is no other compost testing program available to compost manufacturers or end users that gives you this type of information.  The science behind the development of the STA Program and the various tests that are used is contained in the Test Methods for the Examination of Composting & Compost manual (TMECC).  The lab proficiency standards are upheld through the Compost Analysis Proficiency (CAP) program.

We have seen much growth in the program marketing and structure over the years.  The USCC is always looking out for you. 

• There is Strive for 5% Program, where growers are shown that compost can help achieve the ideal growing conditions of 5% organic matter in soil.
• We began the offshoot of the program, called the Compost Consumer Use Program, which sets detailed compost classifications for three specific consumer uses of compost - Lawns, Flowers and Vegetables, and Trees and Shrubs.
• We created numerous marketing materials for you to use - Brochures, PowerPoints, and Videos.
• In our Million Tomato Campaign, STA participants collaborated with community gardens and others to donate compost to show how many healthy tomatoes we can produce together.
• Joe Lamp'L of PBS television's Growing a Greener World became our national spokesperson, spreading the message of compost through his videos.
• Departments of Transportation (DOT's) in 12 states have shown their confidence in the composters in our STA Program by adding us to their specifications.
• We're proud of everything we've accomplished in the last 20 years for the compost industry!  The STA Program is better than ever. 

Looking forward to the next 20 years, what do you value most about the program, and how do you want to see the STA Program improve and grow in the next 20 years?  For every case study of success using  STA Certified Compost® you send in, we will send you a free booklet “The Soil & Water Connection”. This booket explains the connection between organics in soil and life-giving water for you to share with your customers. Please put "Case Study" in the subject line to Hilary Nichols. Talk to your customers and keep your eyes open, later this year we'll be sending you a survey asking you for your innovative ideas for improving and growing the STA Program.