Managed by USDA-Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), the National Organic Program develops, implements and administers national organic production, handling and labeling standards.
For basics on organic certification or information on whether transitioning to organic is a good option for your operation, visit the Organic Certification and Accreditation Page.
In Colorado, organic producers and producers looking to transition to organic, are encouraged to visit their local USDA Service Center to inquire about the benefits of participating in the initiative.
Organic Initiative
The organic initiative provides assistance to help implement conservation practices for organic producers or those transitioning to organic. The initiative addresses natural resource concerns and helps growers meet requirements related to the National Organic Program (NOP). NRCS assistance includes, but is not limited to:
Developing a conservation plan
Establishing buffer zones
Planning and installing pollinator habitat
Improving soil quality and organic matter while minimizing erosion
Developing a grazing plan and supportive livestock practices
Improving irrigation efficiency
Enhancing cropping rotations and nutrient management
EQIP Organic Initiative
The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides opportunities for financial assistance to eligible participants who implement conservation practices that support the environmental sustainability of their organic operation. Some highlights of the organic provisions in the 2014 Farm Bill and requirements for participation in the program include:
Financial and technical assistance to implement conservation practices and planning to address resource concerns related to organic operations.
Financial assistance is limited to totals of a maximum of $20,000 per fiscal year AND no more than $80,000 over a rolling six year Farm Bill for ALL contracts approved through this authority.
Producers must meet all other eligibility requirements associated with EQIP.
Participants who are not certified or exempt from certification agree to develop and work towards implementing an Organic System Plan (OSP) to meet NOP organic certification through USDA.
Organic Conservation Planning Resources
National Organic Farming Handbook (eDirectives) A tool for NRCS conservation planners and other agricultural professionals who work with organic producers. This handbook describes organic systems and identifies key resources to guide conservation planning and implementation on organic farms.
Click on icon to access archived webinars on organic topics.
