1、BEGINNING ORGANIC FARMING,Certification Mark King-4 Food Works February 1, 2006,CERTIFICATION,To make known or establish. To guarantee the quality or worth of. The process of organic certification is similar to other types of certification.,The Process,Determine what you intend to do. Organic crop p
2、roduction. Organic livestock production. Organic handling or processing.,The Process,Determine how you intend to do it. Transition existing non-organic production. Acquire land or livestock certifiable for organic production. Shift land from another program which may qualify for organic production.,
3、The Process,Determine when to begin transition to organic production. Do you have land that currently meets the requirements for organic production? If not, the NOP requires a minimum 3 year transition to organic production. Minimum 36 months w/o the application of a prohibited substance.,The Proces
4、s,How do I begin the process? Choose an Accredited Certifying Agent. Complete an Application Organic System Plan Record Keeping System,The Process,Organic System Plan: Description of practices and procedures. List all substances to be used. Establish monitoring and management practices.,The Process,
5、Record Keeping System: Consistent, accurate & up to date.What you did. How you did it. When you did it.,The Process,Choose Certifier Submit Application Host On-Site Inspection Submit Any Additional Information Receive Certification,Length of Time,Certification 90-120 daysLand Transition Minimum 3 ye
6、ars.,Length of Time,Livestock Transition Breeder Stock: never Off Spring: last third of gestation Slaughter Stock: last third of gestation Dairy: one year Poultry: second day of life,COST SHARING?,Dont count on it! Indiana has about $1k left. Not guaranteed for 07 Farm Bill.,Questions?,Voluntary Program All Certifiers Certify to NOP Standard The National List,Where To Get Help,ORGANIC FARMERS www.ams.usda.gov/nop Accredited Certifying Agents Universities Consultants Marketing Coops,
