INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana State Department of Agriculture is leading a nationwide effort asking the U.S. Postal Service to issue a soil health forever stamp and seeks public support.

According to the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee, stamp proposals must meet certain criteria  and will be considered based on their significance to American history, culture or the environment.

“Our future depends on the condition of the soil, so whether it’s directly or indirectly, this issue really impacts everybody,” said Meg Leader, ISDA director of soil health and organizer of the effort. “Ultimately, our goal is to recognize this growing conservation movement while stressing the importance of soil health nationwide.”

The USPS receives thousands of stamp submissions annually but only between 25 and 30 are accepted into the program. Once a suggestion is received, the process typically takes two to three years depending on the topic.

“Soil health is a matter of great national significance, and it’s been 35 years since this topic was featured on a stamp,” said Bruce Kettler, ISDA director. “This is one of our nation’s most precious natural resources and something we all rely on. We encourage those passionate about this issue to join us and support the cause.”

There are two ways the public can participate:

• Sign on to the Soil Health Forever letter.
• Send a personal letter of support to: One North Capitol, Suite 600, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or email it to mleader@isda.in.gov. The letter must be addressed to the “Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee.”

All signatures and letters of support must be received by July 23.