State-to-State Food Certification and Organic Farm Consumer Programs
Alaska Organic Certification System
PGS is Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS), a locally focused quality assurance system discussed in their blog. Producers participate as stakeholders and build on a foundation of trust, networks, and knowledge exchange. Certified Naturally Grown is a Participatory Guarantee System. In recent years, they have gained recognition for their valuable role in small-scale farming in organic systems. PGS provides an important alternative to third-party certification programs
In addition to being more affordable and less reliant on paperwork, PGS distinguishes itself by its approach. Inspections take place by peers. Typically, other farmers in the area. The PGS model is based on transparency, trust, and direct relationships. PGS fosters local networks that strengthen the farming community through mutual support and educational opportunities. IFOAM actively supports the development of PGS with educational materials, a bi-monthly newsletter, the publication of an international PGS directory, and its PGS committee.
An estimated fifty thousand farmers in more than 50 countries participate in this peer-review certification program. In some countries, PGS has gained official government recognition and has entered into organic regulations. Arctic Organics is a great example of the State Food Certification for Organic Food Markets in any state but known for Alaskan products.
New Hampshire Organic Certification Program
https://www.agriculture.nh.gov/divisions/regulatory-services/organic.htm
The NH Department of Agriculture Markets & Food (NHDAMF) is a USDA Certifier. It allows the Division of Regulatory Services to implement the organic certification program with the USDA National Organic Program’s (NOP’s) oversight. Certification services are available to producers, processors & handlers, and on-farm processors of organic plant, animal, food, and fiber commodities. The scopes NHDAMF is accredited to certify include crops, wild crops, livestock, and handling operations.
Prospective certified producers must complete an annual Organic System Plan (OSP) demonstrating adherence to the program’s organic regulations. “Organic system plan” means a management plan for an organic production or handling operation. This agreement is on the system from the producer or handler. The certifying agent includes written plans concerning all agricultural production or handling aspects described in the NOP regulations. Annual on-site inspection visits are a requirement of random follow-up visits to verify compliance with the rules. Ultimately, this program has associated certification and inspection fees.
Maine Organic Certification System
MOFGA-certified organic is the best of both worlds.
Products in this program are certified organic and produced or raised in Maine. Local tells you WHERE your food is produced, and organic tells you HOW it is produced. Maine Organics is a leader in State Food Certification for Organic Food Markets.
Maine Organic Farmers do not use GMO seeds, plants, or animal feeds. This organic certification also means these farmers cannot feed their animals GMO grains. Organic certification assures integrity and transparency through rigorous third-party inspections. A third-party inspector must visit the business and ensure the following organic practices. The federal government must accredit the certifier, such as MOFGA Certification Services LLC in Maine. Certified organic producers must keep careful records of their practices. An inspection happens annually to ensure compliance with federal organic standards. Today’s marketplace features an abundance of labels, such as “all-natural” and “naturally grown.” Certified organic is one of the few that involves an independent, third-party-verified process.
Arkansas Organic Certification System
.https://www.arkansaslandcan.org/article/Organic-Certification-in-Arkansas/2876
To receive your certification, you must meet all the requirements of the NOP regulations. These regulations cover what substances you may use in production and processing, conservation measures, recordkeeping requirements, and administrative procedures.
Colorado Organic Certification System
Colorado Organic Certification
The organic initiative provides assistance in implementing conservation practices for organic producers or those transitioning to organic production. The initiative addresses natural resource concerns and helps growers meet requirements related to the National Organic Program (NOP).
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Finally, the Foundation Members, Partners, and Sponsors help fill in the remaining funding necessary to advance organic agriculture. We hope to join the CCOF with our almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and dates all grown in California.
Utah Organic Certification System
https://ag.utah.gov/organic-certification
Organic Production is a system managed by both the state and federal governments. However, this is in response to site-specific conditions in the growing or processing of foods. Organically grown products are intended to foster the cycling of resources and promote ecological balance. Furthermore, this program intends to serve producers, processors, and consumers of agricultural products. The goal is to manage a process that will maintain the integrity of food products produced without restricted chemical inputs.
Nevada Organic Certification System
https://nevadagrown.com/farmers/certified-organic
NevadaGrown is a non-profit Nevada corporation. Their mission is to foster the success of sustainable agriculture. The goal is to encourage healthy eating in Nevada’s communities through education, support, and promotion. NevadaGrown is set to educate communities about using foods grown in Nevada. Encourage healthy eating habits that include seasonal foods from Nevada farms and ranches. Accordingly, this program creates educational opportunities to increase the knowledge and skills of Nevada’s agricultural producers. Create and promote a sustainable local food system. Strengthen the bonds between farmers and consumers.
Nevada Organic Certification System
https://agri.nv.gov/Plant/Organic_Certification/Organic_Certification_Home/
The Nevada Department of Agriculture works with various organizations to promote awareness and education regarding Nevada agriculture.
Arizona Organic Certification
https://agriculture.az.gov/plantsproduce/organic-certification-cost-share-program-occsp
Through a federal grant, the Citrus, Fruit, and Vegetable Division oversees the Organic Certification Cost Share (OCCS) reimbursement program. In addition, the OCCS provides cost-share assistance to producers and handlers who are obtaining organic certification for the first time or renewing their previous certification. Cost-share assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis as long as funds are available.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Farm Service Agency request applications for the National Organic Certification Cost Share Program and the Organic Certification Cost Share Program. Subsequently referred to as the OCCSP. The purpose of the OCCSP awards is to defray the costs of receiving and maintaining the State Food Certification.
To be eligible, a producer or handler must have paid the fees and expenses associated with certification under the National Organic Program. Comparatively, an eligible producer or handler must provide the following information to the appropriate State Agency to apply for reimbursement. Firstly, evidence that the operation is obtaining or has obtained certification under the National Organic Program. Finally, an itemized receipt that identifies allowable costs paid.
Alabama Organic Certification System
The adoption of organic practices in Alabama has grown in recent years. Subsequently, this growth is parallel to an increase in marketing opportunities. Producer-only farmers’ markets, community-supported agriculture, and online sales platforms are growing. Correspondingly, consumers can now find organic fruits, vegetables, herbs, milk, and meats, all produced in Alabama. Organic farming has grown into a $50 billion industry in the United States. Subsequently, interest in organic production began in the United States in the 1960s and 1970s. During this time period, there were concerns about the effects of agricultural chemicals on human health and the environment.
These concerns led to a desire for farm products raised without synthetic chemicals. Alabama’s oldest organic farms were established in the 1980s. Broader adoption of organic State Food Certification farming practices lagged behind other parts of the country.
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Florida Organic Certification System
https://foginfo.org/our-programs/certification/
In 2001, FOG received its USDA accreditation to certify farms as organic through its Quality Certification Services (QCS) program. QCS is a USDA- and ANSI-ISO/IEC 17065-accredited certification body that offers various certification options for farming, livestock, aquaculture, compound animal feed, packing, handling, processing, and wild-harvest operations. As the largest certifier on the United States eastern seaboard, QCS meets the operations’ needs regardless of type, location, or size. QCS offers the following certification options: Certified Organic (all scopes), Food Safety Certification (Produce GAPs Harmonized Standards, GFSI-recognized GLOBALG.A.P.’s IFA-Crops-FV, PSS, HPSS, and IFA-Aquaculture + GRASP + FoS –Add-On / CFM for livestock and aquaculture feeds, BRC, IFS, Certified Transitional, Certified Hormone/Antibiotic Free, Organic Aquaculture, Aquaponics, and Specific Trade Practices, which allows markets and consumers to choose to support a more just agricultural system. We educate producers, consumers, media, institutions, and governments about the benefits of organic and sustainable agriculture, presenting at tours, conferences, workshops, classes, and other educational opportunities. Topics include but are not limited to organic and sustainable farming practices, local food systems, Farm Bill opportunities, certification options, marketing, social justice, and opportunities and challenges in the organic marketplace.
Georgia Organic Certification System
CAUCASCERT Ltd was founded in Georgia in 2005. It is the first local organic certification company in the country. Its main purpose is to inspect and certify organic products. Through its activities, CAUCASCERT facilitates the development of organic agriculture, the protection of organic product consumers’ rights, and the growth of the organic market in Georgia. Besides, it facilitates the exportation of Georgian organic products to the European Union and Switzerland. CAUCASCERT Ltd has been accredited to ISO 17065 by the German accreditation body DAkkS. It has been included in the list of third-country equivalent organic certification agencies (please refer to EC Regulation 1330/2016).
The main principles of CAUCASCERT in its work are impartiality, transparency, and sustainability. We strive for long-term cooperation. CAUCASCERT participates in developing national and private standards, trains qualified organic inspectors, and contributes to raising public awareness of the importance of organic agriculture. Caucascert leads in the State Food Certification for Organic Food Markets in Georgia.
Hawaii Organic Certification System
Organic Certification: The Basics
Welcome everyone to UH-CTAHR’s organic listserv. The goal of this listserv is to provide a forum for exchanging ideas concerning organic agriculture in Hawaii. The topics for discussion are wide open, from policy issues, certification, marketing, and industry updates to how-to technical field production comments or questions. We encourage everyone interested in sustainable agriculture in Hawaii to join. The Food Provider is the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources’ sustainable agriculture electronic newsletter. Published quarterly, it features articles on sustainable and organic production, business, Marketing, CTAHR Research News, video resources, and a Featured Farmer segment. https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/qad/commodities-branch/Idaho Organic Certification System
https://idahopreferred.com/idaho-organic-week/
Idaho Preferred® is a program that identifies and promotes food and agricultural products grown, raised, or processed in the Gem State. Administered by the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, the program showcases the quality, diversity, and availability of Idaho food and agricultural products and helps Idaho consumers find local products.
Rhode Island Organic Certification System
The Department of Environmental Management has a plant industry section within RIDEM’s Division of Agriculture and Resource Marketing that administers the Rhode Island Organic Certification Program, through which qualified farms in the state are certified to produce organic products. Beginning in 1990, crops were certified by standards developed by the Rhode Island Organic Certification Committee. Since the USDA AMS National Organic Program (NOP) was enacted in October 2002, the DEM has been an accredited state certification agency, certifying in accordance with the NOP Standards.
These federal regulations require that any raw or processed agricultural commodity or product marketed for human or livestock consumption, which is sold, labeled, or represented as “100% organic,” “organic,” or “made with organic” in the US, must be produced and handled in accordance with the NOP Standards. Any producer or handler (processor) with gross income from sales of organic agricultural products over $5,000.00 annually must be certified by a USDA-accredited certifier. Operations exempt from certification must comply with the Standards’ requirements for production, handling, and record-keeping. More information is available in Organic Certification Resources and Requirements for Uncertified Operations. The USDA NOP regulations can be found on the NOP web page. USDA accredits the Division of Agriculture to certify organic crops and livestock producers. Certification agencies accredited to certify organic handlers can be found on the USDA NOP Accredited Certifiers web page. Operations within the organic handling category process, manufacture, or handle organic products. To determine whether an operation should be certified as a handler, read through the NOP FAQ on becoming a certified operation and State Food Certification.
Illinois Organic Certification System
Protecting and advocating for consumers’ right to safe, healthful food and other consumer products, a just food and farming system, and an environment rich in biodiversity and pollution-free. OCA is an online and grassroots 501(c) (3) nonprofit public-interest organization and the only organization in the U.S. focused exclusively on promoting the views and interests of the nation’s estimated 95 million consumers of organically and socially responsibly produced food and other products.
What we do: OCA educates, advocates for organic consumers, engages consumers in marketplace pressure campaigns, and works to advance sound food and farming policy through grassroots lobbying. We address crucial issues around State Food Certification, industrial agriculture, genetic engineering, children’s health, corporate accountability, Fair Trade, environmental sustainability, including pesticide use, and other food- and agriculture-related topics. In summary, OCA education campaigns reach more than two million consumers and organic businesses through our newsletter, social media networks, or mainstream and progressive news outlets. Our U.S. and international policy boards broadly represent the organic, family-farm, environmental, and public-interest communities.
Connecticut Organic Certification System
https://ctnofa.org/organic-certification/
A Certified Organic Farm complies with the National Organic Program (NOP) standards and has been inspected and certified by an accredited USDA certifying agent. Products have been grown/raised without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, growth hormones, irradiation, or genetic engineering. The certification process is rigorous and requires record keeping, payment of an annual fee, and an annual inspection. Note: The National Organic Program allows farmers who sell less than $5,000 of organic produce per year to call their produce “organic” if they follow the national standards.
Baystate Organic Certifiers certifies many organic farms in Connecticut and Massachusetts. CT NOFA supports its members in the certification process with free consulting. CT NOFA now offers consultation for those who need help with their State Food Certification applications for crops, livestock, poultry, eggs, wild crops, mushrooms, sprouts, processed products, and cranberries.
New York Organic Certification System
https://nofany.org/certification/about/
Diverse Client Base: We certify a wide range of organic operations that include State Food Certification, Farm/Producer, Dairy, Livestock, Wild Crops, Maple, Handler, Broker, Processor, Co-packer, Slaughterhouse, Distributor, Restaurant, and Livestock Auction House.Local and Regional Knowledge: we specialize in New York State and the surrounding Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions to better assist with identifying allowed inputs, addressing soil and pest issues, and more.
We are invested in our producers and provide easy and timely access. We also seek to reduce inspector travel costs by using local agents. Highly Experienced and Trained Staff: We offer a dedicated staff with extensive years of experience in farming and organic certification. Our staff includes graduates in Environmental Studies/Planning, Animal Science, Ag Business, Biology, Vegetable Crops, and Plant Pathology. They aim to provide great customer service and ensure the highest integrity of the organic standards. Wide Range of Special Services.
Iowa Organic Certification System
Kansas Organic Certification System
https://agriculture.ks.gov/kda-services/grants-and-cost-share-programs/organic-cost-share-program
The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) is the nation’s first state department of agriculture. The devotion of this agency is to the total support of agriculture in Kansas. The department works for the entire Kansas agriculture sector, including farmers, ranchers, food establishments, and agribusinesses. The department is dedicated to supporting State Food Certification and assistance to make Kansas businesses. Successful and encouraging more farms, ranches, and other agriculture businesses to expand or relocate to Kansas.
New Jersey Organic Certification System
Jersey Fresh is an agricultural marketing and quality grading program launched in 1984 by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. It promotes local fruits, vegetables, and herbs, assuring buyers that participating farm products meet high U.S. No. 1 quality standards
Pennsylvania Organic Certification System
https://www.agriculture.pa.gov/Business_Industry/pa_preferred/Pages/default.aspx
Definitely, PA Preferred is your resource for finding locally grown and processed agricultural products from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The program is located within the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Market Development. Significantly, the department launched PA Preferred to identify and promote food and agricultural products grown, produced, and processed in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania is home to 7.7 million acres of farmland with an average farm size of 133 acres. The Commonwealth boasts 57,900 farms, 97% of which are family-owned. These farms grow the food that fuels our citizens, and these endeavors fuel the economy. In the long run, buying PA Preferred directly impacts our farmers and our Commonwealth.
The PA Preferred membership base is broader than farmers. Some businesses directly support Pennsylvania agriculture by sourcing ingredients from Pennsylvania farms. PA Preferred processing members are the makers that add value to Pennsylvania agricultural goods. They are preserving the bounty by processing fresh farm items in various ways.
Pennsylvania farmers and the companies that process Pennsylvania-grown ingredients can join PA Preferred to reap the benefits of this statewide brand identity. The mission of PA Preferred is to create opportunities for Pennsylvanians to easily identify and purchase locally grown and processed items, thereby benefiting Pennsylvania’s farmers, agribusinesses, and economy. It is to provide farmers and agribusinesses with a brand identity for the products they grow and produce and State Food Certification. It is to assure consumers that when they purchase products with the PA Preferred logo, they are directly supporting Pennsylvania farmers.
Delaware Organic Certification System
https://agriculture.delaware.gov/
The Department of Agriculture has a dedicated staff that strives effectively and efficiently to accomplish our mission. To sustain and promote the viability of Delaware’s food, fiber, and agricultural industries. Delivering quality services that protect and enhance the general public’s environment, health, and welfare.
Specifically, buying local means buying fresh – buying the best. Buying a local Christmas tree, ice cream, fresh produce, meats and eggs – and much more – directly from Delaware farms means getting the best farm products you can. Delaware has a wealth of markets, farm stores, and other local opportunities to buy locally and support your friends and neighbors. In conclusion, the members of Delaware’s 2,500 farm families work year-round to bring you the best and freshest products.
Washington Organic Certification System
https://agr.wa.gov/departments/organic
WSDA has been serving agriculture and the public for more than 100 years. We support keeping agriculture viable and vital in Washington State through service, regulation, and advocacy. While protecting consumers, public health, and the environment.
The nature of our work falls into three primary roles:This expertise is recognised as a valuable resource. Services are asked for and paid for by the industry. These will include quality inspections, certifications, laboratory testing, and produce grading.
Washington Organic offers guidance, workshops, and technical assistance to support education for better compliance. Regulatory work includes registration, licensing, permits, inspection, investigation, and compliance support for State Food Certification.
Collectively, they work to raise the profile of Washington’s agricultural products and industry. We can be a voice, catalyst, and facilitator for a viable industry through policy, planning, partnerships, outreach, and promotion.Oregon Organic Certification System
Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is a USDA-accredited certifying agent for organic crop production and organic handling/processing. Organic is a labeling term for food or other agricultural products that have been produced using cultural, biological, and mechanical practices. Ones that support the cycling of on-farm resources promote ecological balance and conserve biodiversity. To emphasize, this is by the USDA organic regulations.
Organic operations must maintain or enhance soil and water quality while conserving wetlands, woodlands, and wildlife. Synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering may not find use on farms seeking certification. Any operation or portion of the operation that produces or handles crops, livestock, livestock products, or other agricultural products. If they are going for sale, labeling, or representation as “100 percent organic,” they must be certified by any USDA-accredited certifying agent.
Utah Organic Certification System
Utah’s Own connects consumers with local farmers, ranchers, food artisans, and other agricultural producers. When you buy from a Utah Producer, you strengthen the economy. This creates local jobs, increases food security, and helps preserve farms, ranches, small businesses, and farmland. Helping preserve farms over time. This causes a ripple effect to ensure Utah will have farms and ranches for generations to come.
Locally produced food is often higher in quality and freshness. Additionally, reducing the distance food travels reduces associated air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Production decentralization also links Local food systems to reduced food safety risks. Knowing your local producers gives you a stronger sense of place, relationships, trust, and pride within your community. Simply, with so many incredible producers in Utah, you’re bound to find something new to love. Above all, each time you buy these products, you choose to support the local Utah food supply.
California Organic Certification System
CCOF advances organic agriculture for a healthy world. Simply, CCOF advocates on behalf of the members for organic policies, supports the growth of organic through education and grants, and provides organic certification that is personal and accessible. CCOF is a non-profit organization that governs the people who grow and make our food. Founded in California more than 40 years ago. Today, their roots span North America, and their presence is internationally recognized.
This program receives support from an organic family of farmers, ranchers, processors, retailers, consumers, and policymakers. Together, they work to realize a future where organic is the norm. CCOF members can connect with other organic community members through their regional or Processor/Handler chapters.
Apply for organic certification for your farm, products, or ranch. Learn about the CCOF Foundation and support their work growing the organic movement, or share the word about our programs with your community. Activists should look into our advocacy efforts for opportunities to voice their opinions and become change-makers. 2% for Organic: By choosing CCOF for their organic certification, each CCOF-certified operation gives 2% of their certification fees back to the CCOF Foundation.
That 2 percent enables the CCOF Foundation to give grants. The funding goes to:
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