Understanding the USDA National Organic Program (NOP)

This guide aims to provide an insightful overview of the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) regulations. It is tailored to assist extension agents and technical service providers in effectively supporting southern farmers as they embark on the journey of organic certification and navigate the critical 36-month transition period.

What You Will Learn:

• Certification Roadmap: A detailed, step-by-step breakdown from developing an Organic Systems Plan (OSP) to the final on-site inspection.
• Recordkeeping Essentials: A checklist of mandatory logs, including field history, seed sources, and soil amendments necessary for compliance.
• Crop & Land Standards: Insight into rules surrounding buffer zones, crop rotations, and the usage of OMRI-approved materials.
• Livestock & Pasture Management: Requirements focusing on organic management timelines, grazing (DMI), and animal welfare protocols.

Expert Insights from Southern Organic Professionals

To further enrich this guide, we have gathered insights from three renowned organic experts based in the south:

• Eva Worden: Worden Farm, Punta Gorda, FL
• Juan Carlos Rodriguez: Florida Organic Growers
• Danielle Treadwell: University of Florida

These experts offer valuable advice tailored specifically for extension agents and technical service providers as they collaborate with organic producers.

Prefer to Listen? Join Our Organic 101 Webinar

If you are looking for a more interactive approach, consider attending our Organic 101 for Extension Agents in the South webinar. In the first half of this informative session, participants will explore the fundamental principles of organic certification and familiarize themselves with organic standards.

In the second half, three seasoned organic specialists will share their firsthand experiences working collaboratively with organic farmers and extension agents to address common challenges and opportunities.

Additionally, Certified Crop Advisors can earn 1.0 Professional Development Continuing Education Unit (CEU) upon completion of this engaging webinar.