Our framework encompasses social, economic and environmental sustainability.
Our Process
Farm Level Implementation
Each year, farmers implement science-based sustainable practices on their farm, and make significant investments to improve sustainability of their operation. From planting geographically appropriate varieties to tractor GPS systems, these farm level decisions are critical for sustainability.
Verification
Annually, survey information is verified through a partnership with USDA Agricultural Marketing Service and Federal State Inspection Service. At random, select survey participants are selected for an on-farm or virtual review and verification of reported on farm practices to increase transparency and credibility of the Certified Sustainable USDA label.
Annual Data Collection
Following harvest each season growers complete a voluntary questionnaire that collect data on all production practices, spanning from pre-planting to post-harvest. Anonymous data is aggregated and analyzed through our sustainability framework by researchers at the USDA National Peanut Research Lab.
Outreach and Education
As data is analyzed, new technologies are developed, and innovation in peanut production continues, the Peanut Sustainability Partnership aims to provide resources and information directly to farmers with the goal to continuously move the needle in the sustainability of US peanut production.
“There’s such a strong desire for consumers to connect with farmers and know where their food comes from.”
— Casey Cox Kerr, Longleaf Ridge Farm and 2025 Chair National Peanut Board
Our benchmarks of sustainability.
Increased Land Use Efficiency
Data collected by the partnership shows that Land Use Efficiency has improved and is continuing to improve in U.S. peanut production to meet the constantly increasing food demand in the U.S. and internationally.
Improved Soil Health Indicators
Tools available through NRCS quantify changes in soil health parameters over time based on practices measured through data collected by the partnership.
Improved Water Use Efficiency
Water use efficiency is measured by water applied divided by production, in tons. Data collected by the partnership shows that water use efficiency has improved drastically compared to earlier USDA data.