<a href="https://www.farmers.gov/your-business/organic/organic-transition-initiative/assistance" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Organic Transition Initiative Farmer Financial and Technical Assistance — Find Your Local NRCS Office Here</a>

Special Announcement

This event at the <a id="menur737" class="fui-Link ___1q1shib f2hkw1w f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1s184ao f1mk8lai fnbmjn9 f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1lqvz6u f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" title="https://caff.org/events/" href="https://caff.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Link @ CAFF Organic Learning Day">@ CAFF Organic Learning Day</a> is designed to empower small-scale and BIPOC farmers in California’s Central Valley in organic production practices and markets access. Join this panel discussion examining local channels for organic farmers featuring an organic distributor, local organic farmer, BIPOC food hub, and CA farm-to-school program. Farmers will have the opportunity to connect with organic buyers. 
Translation in Spanish and Hmong will be provided.

National

Organic Markets Overview

Learn about organic farming, certification, and marketing.

Plains

Midwest Organic Producers Annual Meeting

Join us for a noontime webinar to learn more about organic certification. This webinar is geared toward any organic-curious or transitioning producer/grower/farmer – veg, berry, other crops (hay, grain), flowers, maple, livestock, dairy &#8211; as well as processors, handlers, technical service providers, etc.
After a short introduction with background on the National Organic Program and values-based certification, three producers in Vermont (vegetable, maple, and dairy) will share about why they choose to certify.
One of the most important parts of the certification process is recordkeeping &#8211; documenting your organic practices and systems. One of the most common questions is, “but what does good recordkeeping look like?” Learn about recordkeeping basics, templates, checklists, and hear from each of the guest farmers about what works best for their business and satisfies organic requirements. Understand what to expect at the inspection and “meet” some Vermont inspectors. Lastly, we’ll discuss organic markets, what consumers want, and what the future might hold for organic products.
While it’s not possible to cover all aspects of organic certification in a short time period, we hope to give you enough information to set some goals or even feel confident to start the organic application. Please bring your questions for the Q &amp; A portion.

Northeast/Mid-Atlantic

Exploring the Value and Process of Organic Certification

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On November 8th, University of Puerto Rico will host the workshop “Sistemas Agroforestales y la Producción de Café Orgánico (Agroforestry Systems and Organic Coffee Production)” at the Student Center University of Puerto Rico- Utuado Campus.
This event agenda includes presentations on the history of the organic coffee farm at UPR-Utuado, organic management of coffee nurseries and agroforestry in organic coffee production. In addition, we will have a coffee tasting session and a visit to the UPR-Utuado coffee farm.
Learn more and register here: <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc73Oq7rcak_ywYLvU5Iq0q3UCGOolviekYGYFBsbHEZv7fhA/viewform">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc73Oq7rcak_ywYLvU5Iq0q3UCGOolviekYGYFBsbHEZv7fhA/viewform</a>
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Southeast

Promo_UPRU_CE Flier

Agroforestry Systems and Organic Coffee Production

This event is meant to demystify the development of an OSP and records system. This in-person event will provide hands-on help with the paperwork aspect of growing Organic. It is the goal that participants will leave with completed forms and record keeping systems that can meet their paperwork needs. These &#8220;serious&#8221; activities will be broken up with games, contests, and general fun.
The location for the event is TBA, date is tentatively scheduled for Nov. 23 or 30. More info. coming soon!

Demystifying Organic and the OSP

The annual West Virginia Women in Agriculture Conference provides research-based and practical educational opportunities for agribusiness women while fostering networking and leadership development. Workshops focus on the five areas of risk management and production enterprises. Farm tours highlight successful operations and provide opportunities for participants to learn from other’s experiences. The conference rotates annually to demonstrate the diversity of agricultural enterprises throughout West Virginia.

West Virginia Women in Agriculture Conference

Virtual Farming Listening Session

You are invited to the 2024 Virginia Farm to Table Conference: Connecting Food, Farms, and Health on December 5-6, 2024 at the Plecker Workforce Center at Blue Ridge Community College! 
Join us to learn and enjoy collaboration, conversations, and community with farmers, practitioners, researchers, and more.
We aim to bring together farmers, producers, buyers, restaurateurs, food entrepreneurs, community organizers, agricultural development officials, nutrition and dining service directors, dietitians, policymakers, educators, regional food system stakeholders, technical service providers, and regenerative agriculture stakeholders.
Conference highlights include: keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and a Thursday after-hours networking session at Valley Pike Farm Market.
​We are applying for Certified Nutrient Management Planners, Certified Crop Advisors, and continuing education credits for nutritionists and dietitians.

2024 Virginia Farm to Table Conference: Connecting Food, Farms, and Health

Farmer Listening Session at Rising Silo Brewery

The 2024 Vermont Maple Conference, a collaboration between the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers&#8217; Association (VMSMA) and UVM Extension, offers an exciting and informative event for sugar makers of all sizes. The conference kicks off with an in-person Quality School on December 9th in Berlin, Vermont, led by Mark Isselhardt and Jason Lilley. This is followed by three days of online sessions, December 10-13, covering topics from forestry and food safety to climate resiliency. The week concludes on December 14th with an in-person day at Vermont State University, featuring networking opportunities, vendor exhibits, expert talks, and a unique one-on-one “maple confidential” session with Flavor Expert Henry Marckres. All sessions will be recorded and made available post-conference.

VMSMA and UVM Extension Maple Conference

The NEVF Conference includes more than 25 educational sessions over three days, covering major vegetable, berry and tree fruit crops as well as various special topics. A Farmer to Farmer meeting after each morning and afternoon session will bring speakers and farmers together for informal, in-depth discussion on certain issues.
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This conference is special because it is put together with close collaboration between growers and Extension from across the region. The steering committee gathers the best speakers from within our region and across the country to tell you about the latest innovations and advances in the fruit and vegetable industry. Almost every session includes both farmers and research or extension personnel, so you are getting the “best of both worlds.”
There is also an extensive Trade Show with over 120 exhibitors. We hope that you will enjoy your time here, and meet with fellow growers, advisors, researchers, and industry representatives. We want you to leave with new ideas and new information that will have a positive impact on your farm.

New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference

Farmer Mixer

MOFGA’s Farmer to Farmer Conference is known for its intimacy, in-depth treatment of topics and profound discussions. The conference offerings are based on the idea that farmers learn best from their peers and other practitioners. Conference speakers include prominent and accessible university faculty, extension educators and other agricultural professionals. Our unique workshop session format presents talks by both agricultural service professionals and farmers, and then opens up to a farmer discussion that explores both the unique and common experiences of everyone in the room.
Learn from and engage with speakers who are farmers and service providers, including peers and mentors from across Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and more!

2024 Farmer to Farmer Conference

We invite you to the 2025 Winter Conference: 
Rooted in Abundance
38th Annual NOFA/Mass Winter Conference
This event is in person on February 1st, 2025, UMass Amherst
<a href="https://www.nofamass.org/home/nofa-events/winter-conference/">View details on the Winter Conference page</a>

2025 NOFA/MASS Winter Conference: Rooted in Abundance

This workshop and gathering is for farmers interested in producing compost for on-farm use and those who want to explore the process for gaining approval to sell their compost as “approved for organic farm use.” We’ll cover bed preparation for quality crops, including the farm-made compost, and we’ll review soil test reports, analyzing soil test results, and talking about deficiencies in soil, and how to address them.
Dinner will be provided!

Compost Production for Organic Farms, Bed Prep, Soil Test Report Analysis and Recommendations

The Michigan Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) technicians are available between 12 &#8211; 1 pm EDT to provide technical assistance and answer questions regarding organic production, input sourcing, cost-share opportunities, record-keeping, marketing, and more!
Passcode: TOPP

Midwest

Organic Farming Q+A Drop-in Office Hours (Michigan)

Are you considering going organic? This session will connect you with new and experienced organic farmers AND help you get started on an organic plan for your farm.
First, you will hear from farmers transitioning to organic along with their experienced farm mentors from the Transition to Organic Partnership Program. The panel will include organic farmers Kyle Mitchell, Rachelle Bostwick, Sam Otto and Cameron Davis to give you insights into why and how to transition to organic.
Then, you’ll have an opportunity to start writing your own Organic System Plan (OSP). This is part of the annual application for organic certification. You will likely be surprised to see that you know many of the answers to the questions in the OSP form! It simply asks about your farm maps, soil management, pest control, seed sourcing and farm records.
Registration for Great Lakes EXPO includes three days of educational opportunities as well as access to a large tradeshow. Early bird registration is $110 until November 15. After November 15, the price increases to $130. College student registration is $40. Scholarships are available.

Organic Transition Workshops at Great Lakes EXPO (Michigan)

Each year, Iowa&#8217;s organic community of farmers, producers, and consumers gather for the Iowa Organic Association Annual Meeting to celebrate the growing organic movement in Iowa with presentations that highlight new and emerging issues within the organic industry.
This year&#8217;s event will focus on the synonymous relationship between Organic and Regenerative, and the impact this has on building healthy soils, protecting biodiversity, and supporting the climate through farming practices.
For more information or to register, visit: <a href="http://www.iowaorganic.org/annualmeeting">www.iowaorganic.org/annualmeeting</a>.

Iowa Organic Association Annual Meeting: Organic is Regenerative

Everyone can grow organic garlic! Learn different methods for this highly medicinal, versatile, and DEER RESISTANT crop! Come out to the SAgE Sergeantsville Organic Demo Plot to learn different organic methods for planting garlic and get your hands in the soil planting some cloves! We have 3 different varieties, locally sourced from Experimental Farm Network’s Seeds. Participants will learn about different pest mitigation methods, planting techniques, seed spacing, and more!
Tomia MacQueen from <a href="http://wildflowerfarmnj.com/">Wildflower Farm</a> and <a href="http://nofanj.org/">NOFA-NJ</a> Board (among many other amazing accolades) will be joining us to share her expertise on Garlic Planting! Tomia has been growing garlic and teaching others about this amazing crop for many years. We are so grateful to have her share her knowledge and join us in our community planting of the first official crop in our Organic Demonstration Plot in Sergeantsville!

Organic Garlic Planting Workshop

Join IOA and Alexandra Petrovits with MOSA for a webinar covering the application process for the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) through your local FSA office. The deadline to apply is October 31, 2024.
OCCSP offers reimbursement of up to 75% of organic certification costs, up to $750. The deadline for application is coming up quickly and this webinar is designed to make the process easier to understand.
Webinar Highlights
<ul>
<li>Program introduction</li>
<li>Gathering necessary documents (USDA Organic Certification, and itemized invoice)</li>
<li>Completing forms <a href="https://assets.nationbuilder.com/iowaorganic/pages/774/attachments/original/1728570908/Form_SF-3881.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SF-3881</a> and <a href="https://assets.nationbuilder.com/iowaorganic/pages/774/attachments/original/1728570907/Form_AD-2047.pdf?1728570907" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AD-2047</a> (if you haven&#8217;t previously filed with FSA)</li>
<li>Completing form <a href="https://assets.nationbuilder.com/iowaorganic/pages/774/attachments/original/1728570910/Form_CCC-884.pdf?1728570910" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CCC-901</a> Part A (if you haven&#8217;t previously filed with FSA, and applicant is an entity)</li>
<li>How to locate <a href="https://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app?service=page/CountyMap&amp;state=IA&amp;stateName=Iowa&amp;stateCode=19" target="_blank" rel="noopener">your local FSA office</a></li>
<li>Q&amp;A / Discussion</li>
</ul>
Overview of the Organic Certification Cost Share Program
OCCSP provides cost share assistance to producers and handlers of agricultural products who are obtaining new certification, or renewing their certification under the National Organic Program (NOP). Certified operations may receive up to 75 percent of their certification costs paid during the program year, not to exceed $750 per certification scope. Eligible OCCSP applicants include any certified organic producers or handlers who have paid organic certification fees to a USDA-accredited certifying agent.
See full program details at <a href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/occsp/index" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.fsa.usda.gov</a>

How to Apply for the Organic Certification Cost Share Program Webinar

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-20664" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/happyhollow-300x133-1.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="133" />
Join Happy Hollow Farm and Missouri Organic Association for an educational evening on the farm to share and learn about the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) and the process for organic certification.
The program will include a farm tour to see how Happy Hollow manages their organic operation, an overview of the certification process, highlights of NRCS available resources for transitioning and organic producers, and a panel discussion with current TOPP participants sharing how the program works for them.
There is no cost to attend and dinner is included for this field event.  For more information or to register, please call or email Teresa Morris, with Missouri Organic Association: 573.207.3960 or <a href="mailto:teresa.morris@moaorganic.org">teresa.morris@moaorganic.org</a>.
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Transition to Organic Farm Tour and Panel Discussion (Missouri)

Join Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network for an afternoon of learning at the Tuskegee University Black Belt Marketing and Innovation Center (BBMIC).
First, we&#8217;ll get a tour by Terri Lewis of the center and the shared processing equipment and cold storage available for farmer use. Then we&#8217;ll hear from Sarah Bell about small-scale grain and rice cultivation in the Southeast. After, we&#8217;ll wrap the day with a tractor maintenance workshop and roller/crimper demo by Justin Tate and David Miller on the BBMIC&#8217;s community tractor (which is available for no-cost farmer rental). To boot, we&#8217;ll share in delicious purple-hull peas grown by Mr. Williams and prepared by Kayla King! Tuskegee University is an Equal Opportunity employer and provider.
Learn more and register for this free event <a href="https://asanonline.ourpowerbase.net/civicrm/event/info?id=51&amp;reset=1">here</a>.
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Black Belt Marketing and Innovation Center (BBMIC) Tour, Tractor Workshop, Small Grains Info Session

Viva Farms y la comunidad invitan a los agricultores latinos al Congreso de Agricultores, una excelente oportunidad de aprendizaje y establecimiento de contactos. Este evento de un día se llevará a cabo en el Valle de Skagit. Las sesiones de las horas de la mañana se enfocarán en la gestión empresarial, el flujo de caja, la preparación para préstamos y la solicitud de subvenciones en el Centro de Investigación y Extensión WSU Northwest. Luego, disfrutaremos de un almuerzo de networking, durante el cual varios proveedores de servicios agrícolas compartirán información sobre sus programas.
Después del almuerzo, nos trasladaremos a Viva Farms para explorar la gestión de plagas, las prácticas orgánicas, recorrer granjas existentes y revisar el uso y las mejores prácticas de implementos agrícolas comunes. Nos acompañarán líderes del Centro Nacional de Tecnología Apropiada, AgWest Farm Credit, proveedores y compradores del sector agrícola local, entre otros. Este evento, que se llevará a cabo en español con interpretación al inglés, es una excelente oportunidad para conectarse con expertos y colegas del sector. ¡Esperamos verlos allí!
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Together with the community, Viva Farms invites Latino farmers to Congreso de Agricultores, a day-long learning and networking opportunity in Skagit Valley. Morning sessions will focus on business management, cash flow, preparing for loans and applying for grants at the WSU Northwest Research &amp; Extension Center. Then, there will be a networking lunch during which various agricultural vendors and service providers will be available to share information about their programs.
After lunch together, we will head to Viva Farms to study pest management, organic practices, tour existing farms and review the use and best practices for common farming implements. Leaders from the National Center for Appropriate Technology, AgWest Farm Credit, local farm business suppliers and buyers, and others will join us. This day-long event will be in Spanish; English interpretation will be available. Hope to see you there!

Northwest

Congreso de Agricultores Latinos

The Organic Seed Growers Conference is a biennial gathering by and for agroecological seed communities in the U.S. and across the world. The event creates spaces where experienced and emerging seed stewards can convene timely conversations, educational training, and strategy sessions. The gathering serves as a conduit for making new connections and catching up with old friends, networking across organic seed communities, sharing knowledge with other participants, and celebrating the growing movement. Organizers curate a conference agenda that reflects the multifaceted needs of seed growers and advocates, no matter the ease or discomfort of the topics. The goal of the Organic Seed Growers Conference is to inspire individuals, communities, organizations, and businesses to take actions that support and improve the integrity of the philosophical and practical systems that make up the organic seed movement and trade.

Organic Seed Growers Conference

This field day will highlight the agronomic and marketing opportunities of elderberries, as well as draw on our guide as a resource. Please contact nathanael.siemens@rodaleinstitute.org for more information on this event.

Rodale Institute TOPP Elderberry Field Day

In-Person Wild Crop Harvest Workshop

Annual conference supporting Native producers and Tribes and the issues they face in Indian agriculture.

IAC Annual Conference

This event is focused on raising awareness of and knowledge of seasonal foods. Attendees can taste, learn, and experience the diversity of locally grown winter vegetables and grains that often go unappreciated. Farmers and chefs from the PNW and afar will share dishes, drinks, and stories at over 40 tables.

Sagra del Radicchio

The North West Seed Farmer Network Convening will include roundtable conversations focused on different themes each day as informed by participants. The convening provides a unique opportunity for organic curious seed growers of specialty seed crops (vegetables, herbs, and flowers) to network, exchange knowledge, and develop collective actions to build sustainable, profitable, and resilient seed systems in the region. For questions about this event, please contact ana@seedalliance.org

North West Seed Farmer Network Convening

Join High Desert Food &amp; Farm Alliance and topical experts (including OSU Extension and Oregon Tilth staff) at Rainshadow Organics to learn about organic practices, what certification looks like, and resources to explore! This field day will include a tour with owner Sarahlee Lawrence and conclude with lunchtime discussion on future programming in Central Oregon and how Organic programs may play a role in it. We will touch on topics covered in the Organic Survey HDFFA is conducting.
Lunch will be provided and a stipend will be offered for your time, energy, and participation. More information will be added closer to the event. Register to ensure your spot and your lunch!
This event is open to all farm owners, whether you are organic, interested in transitioning, or will never consider it. We want to learn with you. If you haven&#8217;t taken the organic survey, fill it out here: <a class="text-blue underline focus-visible" href="http://hdffa.org/organic-survey" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hdffa.org/organic-survey</a>
This event is a part of the Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program through the USDA. Find more resources here: <a class="text-blue underline focus-visible" href="http://tilth.org/education/transition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tilth.org/education/transition</a>

Organic Field Day and Discussion at Rainshadow Organics

Organic Wild Crop Harvest 201

Workshop on starting a farm business and land acquisition: we will have guest speakers that explain the initial steps to start a farm business. There will also be information regarding where to sell, markets, organic certification, the TOPP mentorship program, farmer resources (Navigate and Farmlink), and grant opportunities for small scale farmers.

Land Acquisition

This year’s Tilth Conference will feature three days of activities including more than 25 producer-focused workshops, lectures and panel discussions, a half-day research symposium, a vibrant two-day trade show, engaging national keynotes, a policy roundtable, social events and more.
We’re also excited to host a special half-day Taste of Pacific Northwest Organic Trade Show and panel presentation to help foster connections between organic producers and wholesale buyers.
Tilth Conference speakers present on a range of topics covering a variety of scales, experience levels and interests — from implementing new technology to developing expanding markets; from building food resiliency to creating change through political advocacy. Organic Seed Alliance&#8217;s presentation will focus on organic seed certification.
We will have an Organic track of workshops, and Organic Office Hours with WSDA.

Tilth Alliance T50 Conference

The event is designed for women involved in agriculture and includes speakers and tours of diversified operations.

Wyoming Women in Ag Symposium

Join Northwest Agriculture Business Center for an informational session informing the SE Asian farmers community of King and Pierce counties about the TOPP program. Contact maxime@agbizcenter.org with questions.

SE Asian Farmers Info Session

Join Louisiana State University for a community gathering at the LSU Horticulture Hill Farm Teaching Facility with a farm tour and potluck.
Tour the Market Garden teaching garden, small-scale equipment and irrigation systems, postharvest sorting and storage facility, and organic box beds. Bring a dish if you are able, but it&#8217;s not required!
For more information about this event, contact Alisha at liatrisfarm@gmaiI.com.

Farmer Meet Up, Farm tour and Potluck!

<div data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Join us on October 28th, from 10 AM to 2 PM Eastern, for the &#8220;Fall into Soil Health: Field Walk&#8221; at Lolas Organic Farm in Glenwood, GA. This event is designed to educate new and transitioning farmers about organic technical assistance programs and effective soil health practices, with a special focus on cover crops in organic systems.</div>
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<div>Led by Farmer and Owner Jennifer Taylor, participants will enjoy a guided tour of the farm, engage in discussions on soil heath practices, and learn about organic citrus management.</div>
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<div>A Q&amp;A session with local experts will follow lunch, offering attendees the chance to ask questions about organic certification and assistance. Local experts from NRCS, UGA Extension, and the Rodale Institute will be available.</div>
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<div>This field walk is ideal for both current and transitioning organic farmers. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Lunch will be provided.</div>

Fall into Soil Health: Field Walk

Are you considering USDA Organic Certification but need more clarification about the requirements and process? Becoming a Certified Organic farm is a significant commitment, but it can have tremendous advantages, from increased market competitiveness and improved recordkeeping to accessing additional funding and technical assistance from service providers.
This month’s Demystifying Organic host farm is the VSU Randolph Farm! Dr. Sanjun Gu, Extension Specialist and Associate Professor of Horticulture, will tour us through VSU&#8217;s 416-acre agricultural learning center, home to a multitude of agricultural related research, demonstration and instruction activities. In addition to producing the region&#8217;s traditional row crops, the farm is utilized for research and education in areas of new and niche crops, alternative cropping methods, horticultural crops, nutrient management, water quality, animal production, and aquaculture production.
Join us to demystify the organic certification process and hear about the latest resources, programs and tools. Learn about &#8220;what it takes to transition to certified organic&#8221; with Meredith Morgan, of Quality Certification Services. American Farmland Trust with guide the networking session, where you can speak with organic farmers about your questions regarding the journey through transition to organic production.<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20275" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/67001574c856d1403c0bcf55.jpg" alt="" width="680" height="340" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/67001574c856d1403c0bcf55.jpg 680w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/67001574c856d1403c0bcf55-300x150.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 680px) 100vw, 680px" />

Demystifying Organic: Networking, Workshop and Farm Tour at VSU Randolph Farm

Calling Colorado Farmers &#8212;
Join Mad Agriculture’s Director of Stewardship, <a title="https://madagriculture.org/team/clark-harshbarger" href="https://madagriculture.org/team/clark-harshbarger" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" data-msys-clicktrack="0">Clark Harshbarger</a>, as he takes us through a geologic history of the Left Hand Valley and Haystack Mountain. To highlight the day&#8217;s events, we will spend time identifying and describing inherent and dynamic soil properties, such as the soil’s horizons, aggregates, organic matter content and porosity in a soil pit at Haystack Farm.
Our observations will be set in the context of Haystack’s transition to organic agriculture, best uses for what enterprises the land can offer the farm, and what the farmer can do to give back to the land. We hope to provide you with an emphasis on organic land management that you can take back to your farm.
RSVP to confirm your spot. Come hungry, lunch will be provided. This is an outdoor event so prepare accordingly &#8212; sun hat, water, closed toe shoes. This offering is funded through the USDA&#8217;s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).

Haystack Farm Field Day – Transition to an Organic Pasture

<div class="paragraph">Why Organic? Whether you’re already organic, on a mission to transition, or organic-curious, this event is for you. Attend this workshop on how to transition and succeed. Come learn about the significance of organic practices and certification, USDA certified organic processes and requirements, the impact of organic practices on soil ecology and productivity, and climate resilient practices within organic production systems. Curbside Consultations with: Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA), Oregon Tilth, OnMark Certification Services, Midwest Organic Services Association (MOSA).</div>
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<div class="paragraph">
<div class="paragraph">No cost to attend and lunch is included. </div>
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Why Organic? How to Transition and Succeed (Illinois)

As the foundation of organic farming, soil and its stewardship must be at the center of any production plan. Most production practices influence soil properties, and therefore must be implemented with intention to adequately sustain or enhance its health and quality. The discussion will focus on practices and systems that prioritize soil and contribute towards its capacity to support plant and human health, and overall ecosystem function. Kimberly Dalton (NRCS Soil Conservationist), Joseph Heckman (Extension Specialist in Soil Fertility), and Alex Sawatzky (Assistant Director of Sustainable Agriculture) will talk about cover cropping, mulching, reduced and no-till, soil carbon amendment, conservation cover, and crop/livestock integration. Kimberly will also give an overview of the programs offered by NRCS that provide technical and financial assistance to farmers, including the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), and Organic Initiative.

Soil Health, Fertility, and Conservation Workshop

The 46th Annual OEFFA Farming Conference is three days of learning, sharing, and connecting with hundreds of sustainable farmers, gardeners, and local food supporters. From transitioning to organic to pasture management to food policy, this conference covers diverse themes in organic and sustainable agriculture. Registrants enjoy dozens of workshops, hands-on demonstrations, locally-sourced meals, an exhibit hall of shops and information, and much more.

OEFFA’s 46th Annual Farming Conference (Ohio)

Brightwood Farm is a diversified, small, family-owned, specialty crop farm harvesting 
vegetables 12 months a year. The owners of the farm, Susan and Dean, are firmly 
committed to organic certification as a means to communicate their values to customers 
and to produce better tasting food. They have been certified vegetable producer/growers 
for two decades in both Colorado and their previous operation in Virginia. Having worked 
with several organic certification companies, they look forward to a useful discussion 
sharing perspectives and answering questions on organic systems plans, approved input 
lists, managing seed lists, crop rotation under continuous production, NOP-compliant onfarm composting, record keeping, inspections, and the organic certification cost-share 
program. 
Come to ask your questions about organic farming and take a producer-focused tour of the 
farm. Please arrive on time and come prepared for the weather.
Contact Maclaine Sorden 
(maclaine.sorden@state.co.us or 720.402.8579) with any questions. 
Lunch will be provided, and we look forward to seeing you there!

Organic Field Day and Workshop at Brightwood Farm

Join NOFA NJ and Filmmaker Anthony Suau for a panel discussion and screening of Organic Rising, the first feature-length film to demystify organic agriculture for the consumer.
Tickets will be sold at the door, $20 General Admission/$10 for Students. Be sure to arrive early to secure your seat! There is street parking and a municipal parking garage 2 blocks away from the theater. Theater location is at Voorhees Hall #105/Rutgers University, 71 Hamilton Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901. <a href="https://newjerseyfilmfestivalfall2024.eventive.org/schedule?filterVenues[65f338e9ad06d704e15de776]=true">Visit NJ Film Fest Website</a>

Organic Rising: Film Screening at Rutgers Film Co-op

Growers are increasingly interested in cultural practices that improve plant health, extend the growing season, and increase the resilience of their farm’s operation. High tunnels are now widely used on mixed vegetable farms in Maine, and their popularity is only growing. However, a high tunnel is a major investment, and may not be the appropriate choice for every situation. Low tunnels can be an affordable and nimble option for season extension and can protect vulnerable crops from pest damage. Come learn from farmers experienced in the many applications of low tunnels on a mixed vegetable farm and learn about mentorship opportunities for producers transitioning to organic offered through the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).

Tunnel Talk: Low Tunnels in Organic Production

This workshop and gathering is for farmers interested in producing compost for on-farm use and those who want to explore the process for gaining approval to sell their compost as “approved for organic farm use.” We’ll cover bed preparation for quality crops, including the farm-made compost, and we’ll review soil test reports, analyzing soil test results, and talking about deficiencies in soil, and how to address them.

On November 1st, join Florida Organic Growers from 10am – 2pm for the informative workshop &#8220;Organic Research Innovations and Solutions for Florida Farmers&#8221; presented by Ben McLean III of McLean Family Farms. Learn about the benefits of organic farming and innovative research that that can be used on your farm. This workshop is designed for all levels of farmers to gain knowledge of a wide variety of practices and strategies that have been used for over 20 years by McLean Family Farms. Participants will also have a chance to participate in a tour led by Dr. Danielle Treadwell which will highlight current research being done at the UF/IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit (PSREU).
This is a free event! Registration is required.  
The workshop will be held on November 1st in person at the UF/IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit (PSREU) located at 2556 W. Hwy. 318 Citra, FL 32113. 
A light lunch will be provided.
Please be aware this is an on-farm event. It is recommended attendees wear closed-toed shoes and be prepared for outdoor weather, including bringing hats, sunglasses and water.
Questions? Contact Florida Organic Growers at <a title="mailto:SETOPP@foginfo.org" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/organic-research-innovations-and-solutions-for-florida-farmers-tickets-1037098508557?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">SETOPP@foginfo.org</a> or call 352-377-6345.
This project is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).

FOG_ McLean Workshop – Nov 1 2024

Organic Research Innovations and Solutions for Florida Farmers

Join us for an engaging panel with local small-scale farmers on how sustainable practices in food production and marketing can drive profitability for your farm or small business. Then, we’ll learn how to transition from synthetic and conventional chemicals to effective organic alternatives, enhancing soil health, boosting crop resilience, and promoting biodiversity.
Learn more and register <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sustainability-profitability-a-food-production-marketing-panel-tickets-1028319389977?aff=oddtdtcreator">here</a>.

Sustainability=Profitability: A Food, Production, and Marketing Practices Panel

Join SAAFON (Southeastern African American Farmers Organic Network) on October 12th for Agrarian Revival Fest: Rooting in Our Practices!
This free festival is a celebration of organic agriculture and Black agrarianism, designed to highlight the enduring legacy of Black farmers across the Southeast. A farmer-centered, family-friendly daylong event, Agrarian Revival Fest promises attendees an exploration of land practices that are both sustainable and ancestral, integrating the past, present, and future of Black agrarianism.
Learn more <a href="https://saafon.org/saafon-hosts-inaugural-agrarian-revival-fest-rooting-in-our-practices/">here</a>.
Register <a href="https://saafonemergencyfundapplication.formstack.com/forms/saafon_agrarian_revival_fest_registration_form">here</a>.

Agrarian Revival Fest: Rooting in Our Practices

Organic Seed Alliance is pleased to invite you to a workshop on organic seed production with an emphasis on seed cleaning, as part of Huerto de la Familia&#8217;s programming in its celebration of Latinx Farmer&#8217;s Day. This workshop will be offered in Spanish only.

Workshop on organic seed production (Talle sobre producción de semillas orgánicas)

Join Oxbow Farm and Conservation Center and Agriculture Program Manager Anthony Reyes for a fall-focused field day and tour! We will be exploring and providing updates and learnings from various farming and production trials throughout the year including our first year of summer drought resilience cover crop trials and second year of dry farm production trials.
We will also explore the benefits, types, and methods of incorporating cover crops in Organic farming systems, talking through technical aspects of site prep, selection, seeding, etc. Additionally we will discuss everything winter farm prep and shoulder season production, talking through the technical nitty gritty of Organic regulations and opportunities of extending your growing season, bulking and storing winter crops, and have the opportunity to ask questions about cover crops or general Organic and sustainable farming practices.

10-9-ag-field-day

Agriculture Field Day

Interested in getting certified organic, or just curious? Join OGRAIN and FairShare CSA for a webinar panel of certified, recently transitioned, and non-certified farmers as they discuss their perspectives and decision-making processes about organic certification.
We&#8217;ll hear from Kat Becker (Cattail Organics), Brad Wissmueller (Little Society Farm), and Martice Scales (Full Circle Healing Farm) about their experiences and key factors that shaped their decisions about organic certification, including market opportunities, recordkeeping, and feasibility.
Learn more about the organic transition process, as well as some of the financial and technical resources available to transitioning farmers.
A live question-and-answer session will also give you the chance to ask your most pressing questions about certification and farming organically.
Webinar Co-hosts:
<ul>
<li>The Organic Grain Resource and Information Network (OGRAIN) is a University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison) program that provides resources and support for organic grain production in the Upper Midwest</li>
<li>FairShare CSA is a Wisconsin non-profit organization serving the Midwest region to build resilient food communities by investing in farmers and empowering eaters.</li>
</ul>

Perspectives on Organic Certification: A Farmer Panel Webinar

Don’t miss out on a day of exciting talks on the latest organic research and practices in Iowa and the Midwest! Come network with organic farmers and vendors representing marketers, seed companies, government agencies, non-profits and technology companies. Taste the bountiful organic harvest prepared into an exquisite meal by the University of Iowa chefs.

The Iowa Organic Conference

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-20159" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024.jpg 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Join us for a demonstration of multiple different ways to prep a site to transition from a thick hay field to organic food production. We will focus on comparing minimal soil disturbance to heavier plow, and using smaller tools like BCS with rotary plow, solarization with Silage Tarps, broadfork, and more!

Site Prep with Mike Rassweiler of North Slope Farm

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-20157" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024.jpg 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Join us with Abeni Ramsey of City Girl Farm to demonstrate Food Safe Harvest and Order Processing on a small scale organic farm. Discussions will cover steps to take to ensure your harvest is meeting food safety standards, how to adapt your situation to start small and scale up, as well as ways to grow and plan your field production to ensure a safe harvest, and more!

Food Safe Harvest Workshop with Abeni Ramsey of City Girl Farm

This year, the NODPA Field Days focuses on demystifying the succession planning process for organic dairy farms.
While there are any number of different webinars, workshops and presentation on farm transfer, none approach the challenge from an organic dairy perspective.
At the 24th Annual NODPA Field Days, we will bring together all of the topics, experts, and experiences that will help guide you through a complex process. We will hear from farmers who have successfully and not so successfully, been through the process, from farmers in the midst of it; from those farmers who have moved on and those who are getting started. Regardless where a person or family is in the farm transfer process, everyone admits that it’s stressful and stirs up a lot of emotion and feelings. Come to hear how everyone has dealt with it, and share your own experiences, concerns and questions.

2024 NODPA Field Days

<h4>Join us for a live conversation with a organic citrus farmer!</h4>
Rodale Institute is excited to invite you to a live conversation with Herb Young, the passionate owner of <a href="https://squeezecitrus.com/pages/about-us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Squeeze Citrus</a>, as he shares his journey into organic citrus farming.
Herb will dive into his experiences with organic certification and the unique challenges he’s faced growing organic citrus in South Georgia. Discover experiences of regenerative organic practices and gain valuable insights into making your organic farm thrive.
This webinar is perfect for current and transitioning organic farmers. Whether you’re starting out or looking to expand your knowledge, this session will equip you with the tools and confidence to navigate the organic certification process.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a seasoned expert and enhance your organic farming journey!
<h5>Hosted by:</h5>
<ul>
<li>De’Anthony Price, Southeast Organic Consultant</li>
<li>Jen Rose Silverman, New Mexico Organic Consultant</li>
<li>Herb Young, Owner of Squeeze Citrus</li>
</ul>
This webinar is funded by the USDA National Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).
Learn more and register <a href="https://rodaleinstitute.org/events/webinar-organic-unveiled-a-journey-through-certification-and-challenges/">here</a>.

Webinar: Organic Unveiled—A Journey Through Certification and Challenges

Join us for an Organic Field Day at Abundant TerrAced Earth in Silt!
This ten-acre, USDA-certified organic farm has spent years building a sustainable ecosystem that produces clean, healthy food while protecting the air, water, and soil for future generations. Terrie and Ace, the farm&#8217;s dedicated owners, have introduced grapevines, fruit trees, and wildlife habitats while expanding their medicinal garden. Over the past nine years, they&#8217;ve also undertaken a major project to install an underground irrigation system that significantly reduces water waste.
Come hear their inspiring organic farming journey and take a guided tour of the beautiful farm. Please dress for the weather.
Lunch will be provided, and we look forward to seeing you there!

Organic Field Day: Abundant TerrAced Earth / Silt, CO

This webinar focuses on achieving profitability during the transition to organic farming, featuring insights and practical advice from Blake Burggraff, a recently transitioned organic farmer. As transitioning to organic production can present financial challenges, this session will cover essential financial practices and strategies that can help mitigate risks and ensure a successful transition. Blake Burggraff will share his firsthand experiences, detailing the strategies and decisions that contributed to his farm’s profitability during and after the transition process.

Profitability for Transitioning Organic Producers

This webinar focuses on exploring the growing opportunities in organic specialty grains and crop markets within the Great Plains region. Designed for transitioning and aspiring organic farmers, the session will provide valuable insights into identifying and tapping into these niche markets. The webinar will feature a panel discussion with seasoned organic farmers and representatives from the Organic Farmers’ Agency for Relationship Marketing (OFARM). Panelists will share their experiences and strategies for successfully marketing organic specialty grains, such as heirloom varieties, ancient grains, and other high-demand crops

Identifying Organic Specialty Grains and Crop Markets

This 65 minute webinar provides an overview of the process for determining the use of materials approved for use in crop and livestock production under the USDA National Organic Program (NOP). Participants will gain a clear understanding of the regulatory requirements, including how to identify and use approved substances to maintain compliance with NOP standards. The webinar will also delve into the role of the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) in supporting the organic input industry. The role of OMRI&#8217;s certification process and its product lists will be explained. By the end of the session, attendees will have the knowledge and resources needed to make more informed decisions about material use in organic farming, enhancing both their compliance and productivity.

Understanding approved materials for use in organic crop and livestock production

This event will discuss key topics on organic crop rotations essential for transitioning organic farmers. The event begins with a discussion on row crop rotations, focusing on strategies for farmers transitioning to organic practices. Experts will highlight the importance of diverse rotations. The event also explores the cultivation of aronia berries and grapes, emphasizing their use in producing wine and juice and their potential for high-value market opportunities as part of an organic crop system. A panel of experienced organic farmers will share their successful practices for implementing crop rotations in organic systems. The day will include a panel presentation from buyers, who will discuss effective marketing strategies for crops produced in organic rotations. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to optimize both production and marketability in their organic farming operations. The day concludes with an organic dinner and networking time.

Marketing the Whole Crop Rotation

Northwest Transition to Organic Partnership Program, Oregon Tilth, and EMSWCD present this FREE webinar to provide you with information about organic certification, regulations and compliance, and the benefits of becoming certified. Gain practical insights into overcoming certification challenges and leveraging the economic and environmental advantages.

Organic Certification Webinar

Join Florida Organic Growers from 10am &#8211; 2pm for an informative session on marketing your Organic products and crops. During this workshop, learn about key organic practices and marketing strategies for fruits and vegetables presented by Ben McLean III of McLean Family Farms. Learn about the benefits of organic farming and how it can enhance the viability of your farming business. This workshop is designed for both beginner and intermediate level farmers to gain knowledge of a wide variety of practices and strategies that have been used for over 20 years by McLean Family Farms. An overview of approved materials and a demonstration of methods will be provided.
This is a free event! Registration is required.
The workshop will be held on October 10th in person at Swallowtail Farm located at 7301 SE 92nd Terrace Gainesville, FL 32641.
A light lunch will be provided.
Please be aware this is an on-farm event. It is recommended attendees wear closed-toed shoes and be prepared for outdoor weather, including bringing hats, sunglasses and water.
Questions? Contact Florida Organic Growers at <a title="mailto:SETOPP@foginfo.org" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-organic-advantage-marketing-your-organic-products-and-crops-tickets-1020857270577?aff=ebdsoporgprofile" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">SETOPP@foginfo.org</a> or call 352-377-6345.
This project is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).

FOG_McLean Workshop Oct 10

The Organic Advantage: Marketing Your Organic Products and Crops

Join River Queen Greens and SPROUT NOLA for a cover crop field day in which RQG will discuss their overall summer cover crop strategies and present the termination techniques they&#8217;re using this fall season. This is an opportunity for agricultural producers to learn from their peers about using cover crops as a sustainable soil building practice.
<ul>
<li>Attendees will be present as RQG terminates their summer sunn hemp cover crop using a tractor-mounted roller crimper and will learn about their two-year Southern SARE grant-funded experiment planting directly into crimped sunn hemp.</li>
<li>Attendees will see multiple growth stages of summer cover crop mix (sudan grass, buckwheat, iron and clay cowpeas, and sunflowers) and will also see the different termination strategies used in different fields.</li>
<li>RQG will demonstrate the EGO brush cutter and also talk about how they&#8217;ve adapted without their riding mower, which has played a big role in the past in helping terminate cover crop</li>
<li>Attendees will learn how tarps are used instead of tillage to incorporate cover crops.</li>
</ul>
This peer-to-peer learning opportunity is part of the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). Food and beverages will be provided.
Hope to see you on Friday, September 20th for the Cover Crop Termination Variety Show!
The event is free but registration is required. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cover-crop-termination-field-day-at-river-queen-greens-tickets-1005384410837?aff=oddtdtcreator">Register here.</a>

Cover Crop Termination Field Day

This training is for anyone interested in learning more about the organic regulations and how organic certification works. Participants gain specialized knowledge of organic regulations and certification, useful for farms interested in organic certification or practices (whether already certified or interested in transitioning), government agencies, non-profit organizations, technical service providers, or people interested in <a href="https://youtu.be/Px-TGrNbOxE?si=t71v_c1_T6cZUcgF" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">careers in organic certification</a>.
To complete the full course, sign up for the online pre-requisite class, &#8220;Introduction to Organic Agriculture,&#8221; and at least one in-person &#8220;Organic Regulations 101&#8221; class. Participants are welcome to take just the online class, but the in-person class is only available to people who have already completed the online class.

Organic Regulations 101: Crops and Livestock

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-20045" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--300x300.png" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--300x300.png 300w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--1024x1024.png 1024w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--150x150.png 150w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--768x768.png 768w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post-.png 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
We&#8217;ll tour One Straw Farm and learn more about managing plant disease and pest pressure on a certified organic farm. We&#8217;ll also learn  about the USDA Organic and Real Organic Project certification process.

One Straw Farm Field Day: Organic Certification, Disease, and Pest Management

Attendees will enjoy a field walk of the Student Farm with an educational focus on weed, pest, and disease management for organic farming. Guest speakers include Kris Holmstrom from the Rutgers Vegetable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program and Dr. Andy Wyenandt, an Extension Specialist in Vegetable Pathology. The conversation will be facilitated by Alex Sawatzky, Assistant Director of Sustainable Agriculture &amp; Urban Gardens. There will be an opportunity to network with the guest speakers and other attendees, and light refreshments will be served. Registration is now open! <a href="https://rutgers.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5omKAkVI80DuhQa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CLICK HERE</a> to register for this event.
Guest speaker bios:
Kris Holmstrom has managed the Rutgers Vegetable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program’s north and central New Jersey operations for 38 years. Program outreach involves training student technicians in insect and disease identification and working directly with commercial vegetable growers to develop strategies to manage these pests in environmentally and economically sound ways. Kris holds a B.S. in Plant Science and an M.S. in Plant Pathology from Rutgers University.
Dr. Andy Wyenandt is an Extension Specialist in Vegetable Pathology located at the Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center (RAREC) in Bridgeton, NJ. For the last 20 years, Wyenandt has served as the New Jersey state extension specialist in plant pathology for vegetable and culinary herb diseases, responsible for the identification and control strategies for commercial field and greenhouse growers.

Organic Pest and Disease Management

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/1d7ebe91-6595-4e1e-b49c-5fc76dec4bcb@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

office-hours-se-topp

SE TOPP Organic Office Hours

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/5dcb9070-e4cf-42d1-8eeb-a641545bb887@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/e3dbf42a-6014-44ab-8a83-d38b07d9dcb5@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/46572c4e-640e-4c73-95c8-9c44cfb49983@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/c1da8127-86b3-4766-85d5-9c2064a4547d@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/8d2b55f5-de7c-4ee7-9af1-3663d24108ef@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/753f50c5-5e2d-4b24-9cff-52b31febba20@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/53dad699-c579-4220-bdea-cca0ecb89d70@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/6ee358f3-0b36-4d90-b77a-b376c4573fc5@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/35d2891a-a984-4725-8501-c3bab43ed8ef@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/6b6c38ff-68a6-40fb-b37d-2ebcb799c3a8@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/17329d5b-bab6-4833-b481-773aecac40a3@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm (EST) for free &#8220;organic office hours&#8221;! 
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you&#8217;re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process. 
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants. 
Don’t miss out – <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/414b7a1d-88ee-4ad1-a4e4-a8c2591272e8@94ed8cb2-79de-4c94-9dd0-ab43c13047e4">register here</a>!

This workshop is designed to guide urban farmers through the process of achieving organic certification. Participants will learn about the essential steps and requirements for obtaining organic certification for their farms. The workshop will cover topics such as organic farming practices, record-keeping, soil health management, and navigating certification standards. It aims to empower urban farmers with practical knowledge and resources to transition to organic agriculture successfully.

Urban Farms: Certifying Organic, One Step at a Time

Get ready for a productive spring by learning best practices for preparing your livestock for birth. This session will cover essential tips for ensuring the health and well-being of both newborns and mothers, including nutritional needs, birthing setups, and post-birth care. In addition to livestock management, we’ll feature real-life success stories from farmers who have utilized NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) funds to improve their operations. Hear how these farmers accessed resources to enhance their land and animal health, and learn how you can take advantage of these funding opportunities to boost your own farm’s sustainability and resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or new to livestock management, this session offers valuable insights and practical advice.
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The Organic Farmers Collective Farmer Circle is a standing monthly community meeting open to all. This Circle aims to serve as a landing space for folks to come and learn about OFA, connect organic farmers across the country, and discuss what’s happening in the field. This circle may offer conversational focus around national programs, farmer challenges, etc. and is facilitated by the Farmer Services Team.

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Collective Farmer Circle

Effective crop rotation planning is key to improving soil health, controlling pests, and increasing farm productivity. In this session, we’ll guide you through the essentials of creating a robust crop rotation plan tailored to your farm’s needs. You’ll learn how to balance crops, manage nutrients, and improve yields year after year. Additionally, we’ll dive into practical strategies for organizing and simplifying your farm’s paperwork, transforming it into a valuable tool for future planning. From planting records to field maps, we’ll explore how better paperwork can make your farm operations smoother and set you up for long-term success. Join us for this hands-on workshop and take your crop planning and record-keeping to the next level.
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The Organic Farmers Association&#8217;s Collective Farmer Circle is a standing monthly community meeting open to all. This Circle aims to serve as a landing space for folks to come and learn about OFA, connect organic farmers across the country, and discuss what’s happening in the field. This circle may offer conversational focus around national programs, farmer challenges, etc. and is facilitated by the Farmer Services Team.

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This final workshop of the series provides an opportunity for reflection and planning as the year comes to a close. Participants will review their farming journeys, share lessons learned, and set intentions for the coming year. The session will focus on both soil care for winter and personal wellness planning for the off-season.
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The &#8220;Soil &amp; Soul&#8221; series is a virtual workshop space designed for BIPOC and queer farmers who are organic curious, in transition, or certified organic. This four-session series, running from September to December 2024, integrates wellness, cultural heritage, and practical skills to foster a holistic approach to sustainable farming, combining educational content with grounding exercises, reflective journaling, and community storytelling.

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Soil & Soul Virtual Workshop

The &#8220;Soil &amp; Soul&#8221; series is a virtual workshop space designed for BIPOC and queer farmers who are organic curious, in transition, or certified organic. This four-session series, running from September to December 2024, integrates wellness, cultural heritage, and practical skills to foster a holistic approach to sustainable farming, combining educational content with grounding exercises, reflective journaling, and community storytelling.

Soil & Soul

NOC is leveraging our role as a convener to facilitate national Transition to Organic Partnership (TOPP) meetings twice each for relationship-building and information exchange among TOPP organizations. In April, NOC convened the third national, in-person TOPP gathering in Milwaukee, WI, in conjunction with the Spring 2024 National Organic Standards Board meeting. This gathering focused on connecting TOPP partners across the country, addressing challenges in the organic workforce, and discussing the impact of the TOPP program. Leads and representatives from all six TOPP regions, national partners, and the National Organic Program (NOP), gathered for the meeting.

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National TOPP Fall Meeting

Seeds of Success: Successful Recordkeeping

OFRF’s Farmer-Led Trials program provides farmers with funding and technical assistance to investigate and learn about solutions to their most pressing production challenges. Applications for the 2025 season open October 14–December 1, 2024.

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OFRF Farmer-Led Trials Applications Open

Join Florida Organic Growers, University of Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands Farmers Alliance on October 11th from 11am &#8211; 12pm (EST) for an informative webinar. “An Introduction to Organic Farming and Production in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands” will offer a comprehensive overview of organic agriculture in these vibrant regions, showcasing the diverse certified organic products across the Caribbean. The session will provide an in-depth look at the unique organic farming landscapes of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, explore opportunities within the organic sector, and highlight the benefits and challenges of transitioning to or enhancing organic practices.  
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation on the future of organic agriculture in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands!  
Register for free <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcqd-GsrzIiGNTx-5IkJYRgdUeH3aBq-NjK">here</a>.  
Questions? Reach out to <a href="mailto:setopp@foginfo.org">setopp@foginfo.org</a>  
This event is supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants.

FOGUPRVIFA Webinar 10112024 Flier New

An Introduction to Organic Farming and Production in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands

Join Oxford College Farm and Georgia Organics for a workshop and field day on October 7th! Participants will learn everything they need to know to start using cover crops on their organic farm. The event will be a mix of classroom-style learning and hands-on demonstrations of cover crop planting. Cover crops are a key practice, along with crop rotation, on this and any other certified organic farm. This field day will give teach you the why and how of using cover crops successfully. Learn from an expert who has over 25 years of experience using cover crops to enhance fertility, manage insect pests ecologically, reduce weed pressure, and mitigate crop disease.
Register and learn more <a href="https://bit.ly/oxfordoct2024">here</a>.

Success with Cover Crops: an Oxford College Farm Field Day

Join the O’Donnells on Rusted Rooster Farm for a grain harvest field day demonstration and a discussion on drying, storage, and post-harvest grain handling practices.

Grain Harvest Field Day with Rusted Roots Farm

Join Richard Roberts, the Director of MGA’s Heritage Seed Restoration Project, for a free educational workshop on planting winter grains. Attendees will have the opportunity to see small-scale cultivation equipment in use and discuss strategies for overwintering small grains in Maine –– including soil fertility management, understory seeding for weed control, insulating your crops from frost-heave damage, and more!
NOTE: Planting dates are weather-dependent. We intend to host this workshop on September 10th but please keep an eye on your inbox in the days prior for any scheduling updates.

Planting Winter Grains with Richard Roberts

Viva Farms is hosting a Field Day on September 10th from 3-5pm. Join us and researchers from Washington State University to better understand best practices for organic strawberry and raspberry production in the Pacific Northwest. We’ll focus specifically on nutrient management, organic inputs, and pest management. This work is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) <a href="https://www.organictransition.org/">Transition to Organic Partnership Program</a> (TOPP).
This event is free, but registration is required. Spanish interpretation will be provided.
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Viva Farms está muy contento de presentar un día de campo el martes, 10 de septiembre 3-5pm. Únase a Viva Farms y a investigadores de la Universidad Estatal de Washington para comprender mejor las mejores prácticas para la producción orgánica de fresas y frambuesas en el Noroeste Pacífico. Nos centraremos específicamente en la gestión de nutrientes, insumos orgánicos y gestión de plagas. Este trabajo es apoyado a través del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos (USDA) Programa de Transición a la Asociación Orgánica (TOPP).
Somos capaces de ofrecer el taller sin costo, pero es necesario registrarse. Se proporcionará interpretación al español.

Viva Farms Field Day: Growing Better Berries / Día de Campo para Cultivar Mejores Bayas

We have a full slate of topics and presenters from across the County and State for the best in conservation techniques and information on programs and loans available to growers large or small:
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Trifecta conservation practices &amp; irrigation &#8211; Chris Phinney, NRCS Resource Conservationist
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Trifecta getting started Q &amp; A &#8211; Lindsay Johnston-Fennell, Hancock County NRCS Conservationist
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Full-field mulching &#8211; Lily Calderwood, Ph.D. UMaine Coop Ext. Wild Blueberry Specialist
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Full-field mulching in practice &#8211; Peter Jordan, Blueberry Grower &amp; Event Host
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Opportunities for organic blueberry growers &#8211; Gustavo Diaz, NRCS Soil Conservationist, and Chris Grigsby, Director, MOFGA Certification Services
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FSA programs &amp; loans &#8211; Ciera Waters, FBAC, &amp; Kimberly Vealey, FPAC from FSA
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Get your soil tested by HCSWCD Biologist and Board Chair, Mark Whiting
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Enjoy lunch from a local restaurant &amp; homemade pies with berries from Peter’s farm!
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</ul>

Better Soil, Better Berries: Field Day and Workshop for Hancock County Blueberry Growers

OFARM, CPOF, Iowa Organic Association and Midwest TOPP are co-hosting a Regional Meeting September 4, 5, 6. 
Sept. 4: Climate Smart Commodities benefits, lunch &amp; farm tour with Climate Smart practices being planned. 
Sept. 5: “What’s the Story Behind Low Organic Grain Prices?” 
State of Organics in Minnesota, State of Organics in Nebraska, CPS 823 benefits. Speakers from Scratch and Peck; USDA/NOP; Organic Farmers Association; National Organic Coalition; MW TOPP. Open discussion formulating strategies to cooperatively drive organic grain prices. Meet The Marketer and end the day with a delicious Organic BBQ dinner. 
Sept. 6: Lunch, MW TOPP Mentorship Program, CPS 823 Overview, tour of Mentor farm. 
Attendance is Free but MUST register to attend.

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Fall Regional Meeting: What’s the Story Behind Low Organic Grain Prices?

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Where Producers Find Support &amp; Community

Events

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Get your questions answered at weekly Organic Office Hours!
Curious about what it takes to transition your operation to organic? Do you have questions about the certification process? Or are you a newly certified producer with questions on how to stay in compliance? Join us at weekly virtual office hours with organic expert Sarah Townsend of Oregon Tilth. Learn about Organic Certification, Organic System Plans (OSPs), how to get certified, and more. All questions and experience levels welcome!
Join us through Teams video meeting or simply call in.
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Microsoft Teams Meeting: Join on your computer, mobile app or room device
<a href="https://oregontilth.link/">https://oregontilth.link/</a><a href="https://oregontilth.link/organicofficehours">organicofficehours</a>
Or call in (audio only)
<a href="tel:+13238137538,,445762348">323-813-7538</a>
Phone Conference ID: 445 762 348#
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