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The Transition to
Organic Partnership
Program (TOPP)
Prepared for USDA Organic by AcresUSA., The Voice of Eco-Agriculture
www.ACRESUSA.com | 1
TRANSITIONING TO ORGANIC
10 Steps to Guide Farmers Toward
Organic Certification
rganic agriculture is an
agricultural
approach
that emphasizes the use
of natural and holistic methods to cultivate crops and raise livestock. It is
characterized by a commitment to
sustainable practices that prioritize
environmental stewardship, animal
welfare, and human health.
At its core, organic agriculture is
based on the concept of whole-system farming, which recognizes that
everything within an ecosystem is
interconnected. This approach seeks
to create a balanced and harmo-
O
2 | Copyright AcresUSA
nious relationship between crops,
livestock, soil, and the surrounding
environment.
One of the key principles of organic agriculture is the recognition that
healthy soil is the foundation of organic farms. Organic farmers focus on
nurturing and improving soil health
through practices such as composting, crop rotation, and the use of
natural fertilizers. Healthy soil supports the growth of robust plants and
contributes to the overall health and
vitality of the farm ecosystem.
In organic agriculture, pests and
weeds are managed through a combination of techniques. Crop rotations
are employed to disrupt pest and disease cycles, while soil improvements
enhance the resilience of crops. Birds
and predator insects are encouraged
to control pests naturally, and row
covers can be used to physically protect crops. Additionally, labor-intensive methods may be utilized, such as
manual weed removal, to minimize
the use of synthetic herbicides.
In this paper, we’ll discuss ten steps
farmers can take to become certified
organic producers.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RODALE INSTITUTE
ment. By becoming an organic farmer,
you can cater to this growing market
demand and provide consumers with
nutritious, chemical-free food.
Additionally, organic practices emphasize the use of natural inputs, such
as compost and biological pest control
methods—reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals. This not only benefits the environment but also lowers
your production costs.
Furthermore, the combination of lowcost inputs and premium sales in the
organic market can provide higher profits. Consumers are often willing to pay
a premium for organic products, recognizing the value and quality they offer.
In short, becoming an organic farmer presents a compelling opportunity
to align with consumer demand, promote sustainable practices, and potentially achieve higher profitability in
the growing organic market.
SO WHY GO ORGANIC?
First, though, why would a farmer
want to go organic?
Becoming an organic farmer offers
numerous advantages and opportunities in today’s market. One compelling
reason to embrace organic farming is
the significant growth and profitability of the organic market. Since 2006,
the organic market has tripled in value,
reaching $61.7 billion in organic sales in
2022, as reported by the Organic Trade
Association. Despite challenging circumstances, the industry experienced
a 4 percent growth in sales from 2021
to 2022.
Consumers’ increasing demand
for a healthier and more sustainable
lifestyle is a driving force behind the
growth of the organic sector. People
are becoming more conscious of the
food they consume and the impact it
has on their health and the environ-
U.S. Organic Food Sales and Incremental Growth,
2013-2022
70,000
60,000
50,000
40,000
30,000
20,000
10,000
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
0
Source: Organic Trade Association’s 2023 Organic Industry Survey
conducted 1/13/2023 ($mil., consumer sales).
Sales
Here are ten steps to guide you
as you seek to become a certified-organic farmer.
STE P
1
GATHER INFORMATION
There are various ways to
acquire knowledge and
insights about organic production.
Engaging with local organic producers is an excellent way to learn from
their experiences and to gain practical insights. Attending on-farm organic field days allows you to witness organic practices in action and
to ask questions directly to experienced farmers. Additionally, participating in organic conferences
or trade shows provides opportunities to learn from experts, attend
workshops, and stay updated on
the latest developments in organic farming (a great place to start is
the Acres U.S.A. Eco-Ag Conference
and Trade Show, held every December—events.acresusa.com).
Becoming familiar with the USDA
Organic Regulations & Handbook
is also essential for understanding
the official guidelines and requirements for organic certification.
The USDA website (ams.usda.gov)
provides comprehensive information on organic regulations and
standards.
To delve deeper into organic farming practices, transitioning manuals
and books are valuable resources.
Acres U.S.A. (bookstore.acresusa.
com) offers a range of publications
focused on organic farming, providing valuable insights, practical tips,
and guidance throughout the transitioning process.
Incremental Growth
www.ACRESUSA.com | 3
STE P
2
DECIDE IF ORGANIC CERTIFICATION IS RIGHT FOR YOU
Organic certification offers
several benefits and considerations
that farmers should carefully evaluate.
One of the primary requirements for
organic certification is the prohibition
on applying certain substances to the
farmland for at least 36 months. This
ensures that the soil and crops are free
from synthetic pesticides, herbicides,
and other chemicals, aligning with the
principles of organic agriculture.
Obtaining organic certification provides verification that the farming
operation is following the established
organic standards. This certification
allows farmers to use the organic labeling on their products, which is a
significant marketing advantage in the
growing organic market. The organic
label serves as a trust mark for consumers who seek organic products.
However, it is essential to be aware
that organic certification involves annual paperwork, record keeping, and
inspections. Farmers must maintain
meticulous records of their farming
practices, inputs, and sources, and
must keep track of any changes made
to the land or production methods.
These records are necessary for certification agencies to verify compliance
with organic standards.
It’s worth noting that there is an
exemption for small-scale producers.
Those whose annual sales of organic
products are less than $5,000 and who
comply with all organic standards may
use the term “organic,” but not the
official organic logo. This exemption
recognizes the challenges and costs
associated with certification for smallscale farmers.
4 | Copyright AcresUSA
Ultimately, the decision to pursue organic certification depends on factors
such as market demand, willingness to
adhere to organic standards, and the
resources available for paperwork and
inspections. Careful consideration of
the benefits and responsibilities associated with certification can help farmers make an informed choice.
STE P
3
APPLY TO THE USDA TOPP
PROGRAM
A new program that farmers
can apply to in order to receive support in transitioning to organic production is the USDA TOPP (Transition
to Organic Partnership Program). TOPP
is part of a suite of programs aimed at
assisting farmers in their transition to
organic farming that USDA announced
in Fall 2022 as part of its Organic Transition Initiative (OTI)—a total investment of $300 million.
Through the TOPP program, transitioning farmers can access a range
of resources and assistance. This includes farmer-to-farmer mentoring,
education, and technical support on
agronomy, certification guidance, extension services, conservation planning, business development assistance, information on regulations, and
marketing support. These programs
aim to provide transitioning farmers
with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the organic certification process, implement sustainable
practices, and successfully market
their organic products.
STE P
4
START KEEPING RECORDS
Records are necessary to
maintain transparency and
meet organic certification require-
ments. Farmers should maintain a
Field History Form that documents
the history of each field for the past
36 months, including previous crops,
inputs, and any chemical applications.
Creating a map of each field helps
in planning and managing the land effectively. It allows farmers to identify
specific areas, plan crop rotations, and
implement appropriate organic practices. Obtaining a Prior Land Use Form
completed by the former landowner
provides valuable information about
the previous use of the land, ensuring
compliance with organic regulations.
Additionally, it is crucial to research
organic seed suppliers in the local area.
Identifying reputable suppliers ensures
access to organic-certified seeds that
comply with organic standards.
By diligently maintaining these records and conducting thorough research, farmers can effectively manage their organic farming operations,
meet organic certification requirements, and ensure the integrity of
their organic products.
STE P
5
RESEARCH CERTIFIERS
There are approximately 80
agencies authorized by the
USDA to certify farms and businesses
to comply with the USDA organic regulations. Most certifiers have the authority to certify farms and businesses
worldwide. Research these certifiers
to find the most suitable one for your
organic certification needs.
To explore the full list of USDA-accredited certifying agents, you can visit the USDA website at ams.usda.gov/
resources/organic-certifying-agents.
One example of a USDA Organic
certifier is OCIA International. OCIA’s
Applicant
5. Inspection
Docs Received
Yes
3. Is the
Pre-Inspection
Review Approved?
Yes
6. Post-Inspection File
Coordination & 3rd Party
Independent Review
mission is to support organic research;
foster connections between farmers,
researchers, consumers, and decision-makers; and educate producers
and communities about organic farming and foods. OCIA offers various programs, including micro grants ranging
from $500 to $3,000, scholarships of
$1,000, Farmer of the Year Awards,
and a mentorship program.
STE P
6
No
2. Is the
Application
Complete?
1. Certifier
Informs
4. On-site
Inspection
meet organic standards and follows
the established OSP.
Fees for organic certification can
vary depending on the size and complexity of the operation. Small and
simple operations may have fees in the
range of a few hundred dollars, while
larger and more complex operations
may face several thousand dollars in
certification fees.
It is essential to keep the OSP up
to date and to notify the certifier of
any changes in production practices.
Changes must be documented in the
OSP and approved by the certifier to
ensure ongoing compliance.
Application Sent to Certifier
UNDERSTAND THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS
Farmers should contact a
certification agency and express their
interest in obtaining organic certification. The agency will provide guidance
and support throughout the process.
The next step is to submit the
application and the organic system
plan (OSP) to the certification agency. The OSP details the farmer’s
production methods, inputs, and
practices, ensuring compliance with
organic standards.
The certification agency then reviews the application and OSP. They
may have questions or request additional information, which farmers
No
Decision
should promptly address.
An on-site inspection is conducted
STE P LOOK INTO THE ORGANIC
by the certifier to verify that the farm
meets organic standards. During this
CERTIFICATION COST-SHARE
inspection, the certifier assesses farmPROGRAM
ing practices, records, and compliance
Farmers are encouraged to explore
with organic regulations. Farmers
the Organic Certification Cost-Share
should be prepared to respond to any
Program, which can provide financial
questions or inquiries raised by the
assistance for organic certification excertifier during the inspection or repenses, alleviating some of the finanview process.
cial burdens associated with organic
Upon satisfying all the requirements
certification. Even during the transiand demonstrating compliance with organic standards,
Organics
farmers receive a decision
Organic Certification
and an organic certificate,
Cost Share Program
Introduction
indicating their successful
Is Certification Required
to
How Do I Apply for
Participate?
a Reimbursement?
completion of the certification process.
The organic certification
What Costs are Reimburs
able?
process is a comprehensive
Who is Eligible?
and rigorous procedure that
What Costs are Not
typically takes an average of
Reimbursable?
More Information
four to six months to complete. Once certified, an
What is the Maximum
annual review is necessary
Reimbursement Amount?
to maintain organic certification. This review ensures
Farm Service Agency
that the farm continues to
Organic Certification Cost
Share Fact Shee
7
The U.S. Department
of Agriculture (USDA)
Organic Certification Cost
Share Program
(OCCSP), administered
by the Farm Service
Agency (FSA), provides
organic producers
and handlers with financ
ial assistance to
reduce the cost of organi
c certification. The
program reimburses produc
ers and handlers
for a portion of their paid
certification
costs. Once certified,
organic producers
and handlers are eligible
to receive
reimbursement for 50
percent of certification
costs each year, up to
a maximum of $500
per certification scope
—crops, livestock,
wild crops, handling, and
State Organic
Program fees.
Certified organic produc
ers and handlers
who have paid certific
ation fees during the
2021 and subsequent
program year may
apply for reimburseme
nt of the incurred
costs.
Program
Year
Covers expenses
paid from . . .
The application
deadline is . . .*
2021
Oct. 1, 2020, through
Sept. 30, 2021
Nov. 1, 2021
2022
Oct. 1, 2021, through
Sept. 30, 2022
Oct. 31, 2022
2023
Oct. 1, 2022, through
Sept. 30, 2023
Oct. 31, 2023
Yes. Organic certification
cost
are only available to certifie share funds
d organic
producers and handle
rs. Certification
must be provided by a
USDA-accredited
certifying agent. If your
operation is not
currently certified organi
c and you would like
to learn more about the
certification process,
please visit www.fsa.usd
a.gov/organic.
Eligible costs include
application fees,
inspection costs, fees
related to equivalency
agreement/arrangement
requirements,
travel/per diem for inspec
tors, user fees,
sales assessments and
postage.
Ineligible costs include
equipment,
materials, supplies, transit
ional certification
fees, late fees and inspec
tions necessary
to address National Organ
ic Program
regulatory violations.
The maximum per certific
ation scope (crops,
livestock, wild crops, handli
ng or State
Organic Program fees)
is $500.
*OCCSP funds are limited
and applications
are paid on a first-come,
first-served basis.
Applications received
after all funds are
obligated will not be paid.
You may apply to a
participating state
agency according to
their deadlines, or you
may apply directly to
one of over 2,100 FSA
offices. Applicants
must typically submit a
one-page application
form, W-9 tax form
(to participating state
agencies), proof of
certification and an
itemized invoice of
certification expenses.
This fact sheet is for
informational purposes
only; other eligibility
requirements may apply.
For more information,
visit www.fsa.usda.
gov/organic or contac
t
your local FSA office.
To find your local FSA
office, visit farmers.gov
/
service-center-locator.
t
USDA is an equal opport
unity provider, employ
er, and lender.
April 2021
www.ACRESUSA.com | 5
tion period, there may be cost-share
reimbursement funds available to support farmers in their journey towards
organic certification.
Currently, the program offers a reimbursement of 50 percent of eligible
expenses, up to a maximum of $500,
for achieving full organic certification.
To benefit from the cost-share program, farmers need to obtain a paid receipt from their certifier, which serves
as proof of certification expenses.
For more information and to access
the Organic Certification Cost-Share
Program, farmers can visit fsa.usda.
gov/organic or can reach out to their
local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office.
6 | Copyright AcresUSA
STE P
8
GET YOUR SOIL RIGHT
Prioritizing soil health is key
for organic production. By focusing on soil management, farmers
can avoid complications and can set
a strong foundation for successful organic farming.
Farmers should invest time in learning about the composition and characteristics of their soil. This knowledge
enables them to make informed decisions regarding crop rotation, which
helps prevent diseases, pests, and nutrient depletion.
Implementing a weed management
plan is also essential. It should involve
a multi-pronged approach, combining
techniques such as mechanical cultivation, mulching, cover cropping, and
hand-weeding to effectively manage
weed growth without relying on synthetic herbicides.
Healthy soils are the cornerstone of
organic farming. They consist of vital
components, including minerals, organic matter, water, and air. Farmers
should focus on building and maintaining soil fertility by incorporating
organic matter through practices like
composting, cover cropping, and crop
residue management. Adequate water management and ensuring proper
soil aeration are also vital for healthy
soil conditions.
STE P
9
FIND A MARKET
Developing your market early on is crucial to ensure a
steady demand and sales for your
organic products. By building relationships with potential buyers, understanding their needs, and tailoring
your production to meet market demand, you can position yourself for
success in the organic market.
There are various avenues to explore when it comes to selling your
organic products. You can consider
selling wholesale to larger buyers or
distributors who can distribute your
products to a wider market. Alternatively, you may choose to sell directly
to consumers through farmstands or
farmers markets, which can provide a
more personal and direct connection
with your customers.
It is also beneficial to stay updated on
market trends, consumer preferences,
and organic industry developments to
make informed decisions, and to adapt
your marketing strategies accordingly.
By actively seeking out and developing a market for your organic products, you can establish a sustainable
customer base, create opportunities
for growth, and ultimately thrive in
the organic farming sector.
STE P
10
LABELING
Proper labeling of organic
products is crucial for conveying accurate information to consumers
and in order to comply with regulatory requirements. There are specific
guidelines and requirements for both
retail and non-retail labels.
To ensure compliance with the USDA
organic standards, proper specifica-
tions are necessary for using the USDA
seal on organic products. Farmers can
obtain the labeling guide from their
certifier, which provides detailed instructions and guidelines for labeling
organic products.
There are four different types of labels used for organic products:
1. “100 Percent Organic” label: This
label indicates that the product is made
entirely of certified organic ingredients.
2. “Organic” label: This label is used
when at least 95 percent of the product’s ingredients are certified organic.
3. “Made with Organic ____” label: This label is used for products that
contain at least 70 percent certified organic ingredients. The specific organic
ingredients must be listed on the label.
4. Specific Organic Ingredient Listings: If a product contains less than 70
percent certified organic ingredients,
those organic ingredients can be listed
on the label, but the product cannot
display the USDA organic seal or use
the term “organic” on its principal display panel.
By following the appropriate labeling guidelines and using the correct
labels based on the percentage of
organic ingredients, farmers can provide clear and accurate information
to consumers, maintain transparency, and uphold the integrity of their
organic products.
ORGANIC GOLDEN RULES
In conclusion, here are four fundamental principles to ensure the integrity of organic products:
1. Avoid prohibited substances.
Organic products must never come
into contact with substances that are
prohibited according to organic regulations. This includes synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified
organisms (GMOs), sewage sludge,
and ionizing radiation.
2. Prevent commingling. Organic
products should be strictly separated
from non-organic products to avoid
any mixing or contamination. This
ensures that organic integrity is maintained throughout the production and
distribution process.
3. Exclusion of certain ingredients.
Organic food cannot contain ingredients that are known to have negative
environmental and health impacts
These practices are not permitted in
organic agriculture due to their potential environmental and health impacts.
4. Recordkeeping for compliance.
Certified organic operations are required to maintain detailed records
that demonstrate their compliance
with the Organic Foods Production Act
of 1990 and the National Organic Program. These records provide transparency and accountability in the organic
production process.
By following these ten steps and the
“golden rules,” farmers can become certified-organic producers and can provide consumers with trustworthy and
environmentally sustainable products.
This article was written by AcresUSA, in coordination with the Organic Crop Improvement Association
(OCIA)—particularly OCIA’s Director of Research
and Education, Margaret Laberge. OCIA is the TOPP
administrator for the Plains Region. This article 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).
www.ACRESUSA.com | 7