Organic agriculture integrates cultural, biological, and mechanical practices to respond to site-specific conditions, with the goal of cycling resources, promoting ecological balance, and conserving biodiversity. 

The USDA National Organic Program (NOP) creates and enforces a national set of standards for organic production. A certified organic farm or facility must be compliant with these USDA Organic Regulations, which can be found in 7 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 205. Organic Certifying Agencies are accredited organizations that certify farm and facility compliance with USDA Organic Regulations. 

Farms and businesses earning more than $5,000 in gross annual organic sales are required to certify, while those earning less than $5,000 are exempt from certification. Exempt farms and businesses still must keep records and cannot use the USDA seal when selling products. The USDA agricultural marketing service has more information on the kinds of businesses that are exempt from organic certification.

There are many factors that can influence a farmer or business owner’s decision to pursue organic certification. Often mentioned include: 

• Environmental and soil health benefits
• Health concerns and personal values
• Market access and premium pricing
• Customer relationships and intended markets
• Certification logistics and available support/resources

The Organic Transition & Certification Process

Considering Certification

When considering certification, several first steps can help with discernment:

Personal Audit: What current farm/facility practices are in line with organic regulations? Are there any products or practices that would require an alternative to meet USDA rules? 

Identifying Markets: Where would organic products be sold? 

Building Relationships: It can be helpful to connect with other organic farmers or business owners to learn more about their certified systems. 

Connecting with Certifier(s): Connect with one or multiple certifiers to ask questions about regulatory requirements, financing, and more.

Organic Transition Period (0-36 months)

When you’re ready to make the switch, the organic transition process can include a few key steps:

• Adopt organic practices, transition animals, make infrastructure changes 
• Develop & maintain recordkeeping system throughout transition 
• Work with partners for simultaneous funding opportunities (ex. NRCS) 

Before crops or land can be certified as organic, farmers must manage their land without using prohibited substances, such as synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, for 36 months. There are also specific requirements for transition in orchard and livestock systems. 

The Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE) program has created a ‘Transitioning to Organic Production’ guide that goes into greater detail about these requirements. 

Organic Certification Process

1. Submit organic system plan, application, fees to your certifier 
2. Review (Pre-Inspection)
3. Inspection
4. Review (Post-Inspection)
5. Certification Decision
6. Annual Renewal

The USDA has some helpful videos on this process in their ‘Organic Certification Made Simple’ series.

Resources for Organic Transition

The USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) supports farmers in the transition to organic with direct training, education, and outreach.

The TOPP Farmer-to-Farmer Mentorship Program connects transitioning farmers with experienced, certified organic mentors in their region. Participants receive one-on-one guidance throughout their transition, setting goals and getting expert advice on organic best practices. Mentees can also get help with certification paperwork, and can join various learning opportunities like field days, workshops, webinars, and conferences. To learn more about the Wisconsin TOPP mentorship program, contact Tay Fatke (tay.fatke@marbleseed.org), Alondra Cano (alondra.cano@marbleseed.org), or visit the TOPP mentorship program website.

Financing 

Organic certification and renewal both involve a cost, and the amount may vary between certifiers. Some certifiers charge a flat rate, while others charge variable fees. Different payment options may be more favorable based on the size and diversification of your operation.  

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) works together with farmers to create conservation plans to improve natural resources, such as soil and water quality. They offer financial assistance to help cover costs related to organic farming through programs like the EQIP National Organic Initiative and the Organic Transition Initiative. The new Organic Management Practice Standard 823 also provides technical and financial support for farmers transitioning to organic farming. Farmers can visit their local NRCS office to discuss their conservation needs and goals, and available financial opportunities to bring their plans to life. For questions about organic opportunities with NRCS, visit the Organic Farmers Association factsheet on OMPS 823 or contact Tom Manley (thomas.manley@usda.gov; 715-307-8909).

Questions?

Contact Ariana Abbrescia (ariana.abbrescia@wisc.edu) for resources, helpful contacts, and research-backed information on organic farming.