Long-Term Agroecological Research and Extension (LTARE) Site Network

The Long-Term Agroecological Research and Extension (LTARE) Site Network is a statewide initiative established through the Washington Soil Health Initiative to support long-term, regionally specific research on soil health and agricultural productivity. Recognizing that soil and cropping systems change slowly, LTARE sites are designed to extend beyond typical short-term grant cycles, allowing researchers to measure trends in soil, crop, climate, and economic outcomes over time.

The network includes six sites representing diverse Washington cropping systems, including dryland grain systems with livestock, diversified organic systems, tree fruit orchards, wine grapes, and irrigated potato-based systems. Across sites, researchers evaluate conservation practices such as cover crops, organic matter additions, reduced tillage, residue retention, and livestock integration. Measurements include chemical, biological, and physical soil health indicators; crop performance; carbon storage; farm profitability; and broader societal benefits.

By pairing long-term research with extension, the LTARE network generates practical, cropping system–specific guidance to support resilient, economically viable agricultural systems across Washington state.