Understanding Organic
A Legal Guide to the National Organic Program – The National Agricultural Law Center - Congress enacted the Organic Foods Production Act ("OFPA") of 1990 to create "national standards governing the marketing of certain agricultural products as organically produced products," assure consumers that "organically produced products meet a consistent standard," and facilitate "interstate commerce in fresh and processed food that is organically produced."
Organic Agriculture: Gaining Ground - Amber Waves, Economic Research Service, USDA. This article discusses organic standards established in October 2002, consumer demand for organics and the rising potential for the organic market. February 2003
Transitioning to Organic Production - Sustainable Agriculture Network – Overview of the process, including case studies, of the change from commodity to organic farming.
What’s New in USDA’s Organic Programs – Economic Research Service, USDA.
Organic Marketing Resources - Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas -- Sources of information on the market for organic food and fiber products, including information specifically pertaining to certified-organic products as well as more general information.
Organic Resource Directory – The Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service.
Organic Trade Association -- To promote and protect the growth of organic trade to benefit the environment, farmers, the public and the economy.
Certification and Regulation
Assistance in Organic Production, Marketing and Certification - Economic Research Service, USDA. This page provides a summary of provisions that directly affect the U.S. organic sector.
Certification - The National Organic Program
Certifying Agents – The National Organic Program
Labeling Packaged Products – The National Organic Program
Organic Production and Handling Standards – The National Organic Program
Producers Handlers and Processors – The National Organic Program
Organic Farm Certification & the National Organic Program - Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas - Outlines the considerations involved in “going organic” and the basic steps to organic certification. The sole exemption to mandatory certification is also discussed.
Resources
National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service - Addresses fruits, vegetables, agronomic crops, livestock, soils, certification, marketing, pest control, value-added enterprises, post-harvest handling, and greenhouse production.
Organic Farming Research Foundation – Fosters the improvement and widespread adoption of organic farming practices.
Organic Materials Review Institute - Disseminates generic and specific (brand name) lists of materials allowed and prohibited for use in the production, processing, and handling of organic food and fiber.
Organic Trade Association - A large searchable database of organic businesses; including importers, exporters, buyers, suppliers, growers, and others.
The Real Dirt: Farmers Tell about Organic and Low-Input Practices in the Northeast - Northeast Organic and Sustainable Farmers Network – A book for purchase.