organic
New courses in the Organic Integrity Learning Center launched
The National Organic Program has launched three new courses in the Organic Integrity Learning Center. Record=keeping Record-keeping by certified operations and certifiers is a key requirement of organic certification. This course introduces certifiers and inspectors... more »
Proposed USDA organic enforcement rules focus of industry groups
The Produce Marketing Association (PMA), Western Growers Association and United Fresh Produce Association jointly submitted comments Oct. 5 on USDA’s proposed Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) Rule. T According to a news release, the intent of... more »
New members named for National Organic Standards Board
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Sept. 28 the appointment of five new members to the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). “It’s always hard to say goodbye to outgoing members who have given so... more »
Integrating biological controls for root-knot nematodes, weeds in organic farming
While weeds and plant parasites are a concern for all agricultural producers, organic producers are doubly challenged to combat these problems without chemical solutions. Through a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a University... more »
Reimbursement of certification costs possible for New Jersey organic outlets
New Jersey organic producers and handlers may be eligible for reimbursement of a portion of their organic certification costs under a federal program. Please note that there have been changes to the Cost Share Reimbursement... more »
Iowa Virtual Organic Field Day video available online
A virtual Organic Field Day video from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is available online. The video was recorded at the Iowa State University Neely-Kinyon Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm and is available for viewing... more »
Growers embrace essential oils to suppress pests, diseases as organic sales soar
Organic food sales topped $50 billion in the United States in 2018. Statistics from the Organic Trade Association tell part of the story of this growing market: Fruits, vegetables and other specialty crops combined to... more »
CCOF Foundation offers grants to organic farmers affected by wildfires
The CCOF Foundation is poised to help organic farmers recover from the unprecedented wildfires burning across the West Coast and in CCOF’s own hometown of Santa Cruz, California. The CCOF Foundation’s Bricmont Hardship Assistance Fund... more »
