Indianapolis, In. — The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) is leading a nationwide effort asking the U.S. Postal Service to issue a soil health forever stamp and is looking for 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.”
Every year, the U.S. Postal Service receives thousands of stamp submissions, but only 25-30 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, which can be found by clicking here.
- Send a personal letter of support to: One North Capitol, Suite 600, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or email it to [email protected]. The letter must be addressed to the “Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee.”
To be included in the proposal, all signatures and/or letters of support must be received by July 23, 2018.
Visit www.isda.in.gov to learn more about ISDA.
