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NOP Summer 2011 Newsletter
Download the NOP Summer 2011 Newsletter. Topics include the National List, Organic Compliance and Enforcement, and more!
Farmers' Guide to the Conservation Stewardship Program
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) released an updated version of their popular Farmers’ Guide to the Conservation Stewardship Program. The Guide is intended to help family farmers, ranchers, and foresters understand the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) enrollment process.
NOP has a New Homepage
NOP just launched a new, streamlined website that presents information more clearly for those that don't "speak" organic.
OMRI Drop Notice
OMRI reports to certifiers any product names removed from the OMRI Products List within ten days of their removal. OMRI 'drops' products when the companies voluntarily request their products be removed from the program or they fail to comply with the organization's policies. OMRI prohibits products only when conclusive evidence is on file to demonstrate a non-compliance with the NOP Rule.
Research shows organic farming is more profitable in the long run
An analysis of 18 years of crop yield and farm management data from a long-term University of Minnesota trial has shown that an organic crop rotation was consistently more profitable and carried less risk of low returns than conventional corn and soybean production.
Summer Beauty and Green Manure
We invite you to the Open House and Tilth Plant Sale at Luscher Farm on September 17!
Help Stop "Roundup Ready" Alfalfa
Roundup Ready alfalfa can contaminate other non-genetically engineered alfalfa seed and hay. They also lead to the creation of herbicide tolerant weeds, weeds that result in increased use of herbicides.
Study Shows Switching from Conventional to Organic Practices Reduces Drug Resistant Bacteria
Antibiotic use in conventional animal food production in the United States has created public health concern because it has been shown to contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that can potentially spread to humans. A new study, led by Dr. Amy R. Sapkota of the University of Maryland School of Public Health, provides data demonstrating that poultry farms that have transitioned from conventional to organic practices and ceased using antibiotics have significantly lower levels of drug-resistant enterococci bacteria.
Farmers Markets could Generate Tens of Thousands of New Jobs with Modest Federal Support, New Report Finds
They’re Growing Nationally, but Federal Policies Favoring Industrial Agriculture Hold Them Back
Number of U.S. farmers markets up 17% in 2011
Alaska and Texas ranked at the top for most growth in farmers markets
NOP Releases Report on Organic Certifying Agents' Activities in China
The National Organic Program has released its report based on its review of certifying agents' activities in China last year.
USDA Raises Quotas for Organic Sugar
The USDA has boosted the volume of specialty sugar available to the U.S. market.
Oregon Tilth Launches Certification Program to NSF/ANSI 305
Oregon Tilth Certified Organic, an international leader in organic certification, is now offering certification to the NSF/ANSI-305 Standard for Personal Care products. Companies with greater than 70% Organic content may apply and once certified include the “Contains Organic Ingredients…” statement and apply the NSF “Contains Organic Ingredients” logo to their labels.
Materials Relisted by Federal Register Final Rule
Federal Register Final Rule Notice for relisting of the following materials was published today.
Farming with Food Safety and Conservation in Mind
Publication from the Wild Farm Alliance and Community Alliance with Family Farmers covering co-management of food safety and conservation.
Cost Share Reimbursement Funds Still Available for Organic Producers
The USDA Organic Cost Share Reimbursement Program was approved by Congress and funds were made available through the USDA to applicant states. We want you to know that there is still opportunity to take advantage of these funds.
Food Safety Modernization Act of 2011
The Food Safety Modernization Act of 2011 is widely hailed as the most sweeping update to U.S. food safety law since the Great Depression, and includes language that is relevant to small and mid-size organic producers.
International Trade Reminders
When credible information is received it will be passed along to you. In the meantime please read these important reminders.
Organic Recognition on Capital Hill
Kim Tait showed that organic agriculture is the fastest growing sector of agriculture through statistics and advocated the importance of USDA programs that support organic ag.
Arrival of Summer
Warm days and sunny skies bring life, color and happiness to the Oregon Tilth Demonstration Garden this summer!
