Bruce Caldwell Concludes Distinguished Service as Auditor with 4R Nutrient Stewardship Program
The Nutrient Stewardship Council and the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program announce that Bruce Caldwell, a valued auditor who has been integral to the program since 2016, is stepping down from his auditing and reporting roles. Caldwell has also served as the independent report reviewer for the program since 2019.
The 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program is a voluntary, third-party certification initiative designed to ensure agricultural retailers, nutrient service providers, and other certified professionals adopt proven best practices to enhance environmental sustainability. At the heart of the program are its independent auditors, who play a critical role in evaluating ag retailers to verify compliance with the 4R principles: applying the Right Source of nutrients at the Right Rate, at the Right Time, and in the Right Place. This approach plays a pivotal role in encouraging responsible nutrient management while minimizing agriculture’s environmental footprint.
“Bruce’s contributions have been instrumental to the success of the 4R program,” said Aaron Heilers, executive director of the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program. “His dedication to upholding the integrity and thoroughness of our auditing process has significantly strengthened our efforts to advance sustainable nutrient management across Ohio’s agricultural industry.”
Bruce Caldwell, the CEO and founder of 3Bar Biologics, Inc., brought over 30 years of customer discovery and product innovation leadership to his role with the 4R program. Prior to founding 3Bar Biologics, Caldwell served as Senior Vice President of Research & Development at ScottsMiracle-Gro, where he led a global team to develop innovative agricultural products, including biologics and seed coatings. He has also been deeply involved with The Ohio State University, serving on the advisory board of the College of Food, Agriculture, and Environmental Sciences and as a mentor in the Fisher College of Business Center for Technology Entrepreneurship.
Caldwell’s expertise and commitment have left a deep-rooted mark on the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program. His leadership and insight as an auditor have enhanced the program’s credibility and its ability to effect meaningful change in nutrient management practices.
The Nutrient Stewardship Council thanks Bruce Caldwell for his years of service and dedication to advancing sustainable agriculture. His work has set a high standard for excellence and integrity, and his impact on the program will be felt for years to come.