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Inspired by farmer-poet Wendell Berry’s appeal to “enhance and embolden the possibility of strong agricultural communities,” Tilth was founded to promote a sustainable and just food system.
A Word from Our Leadership | Oregon Tilth Timeline | View the 2024 Growth and Impact Report
Celebrating Growth, Impact, and 50 Years of Organic Leadership
As Oregon Tilth celebrates its 50th anniversary, we reflect on the evolution of our Growth and Impact Reports and how they have chronicled our journey of certification, education, and advocacy in the organic movement. Over the past three years, these reports have illustrated the story of our commitment to advancing biologically sound and socially equitable agriculture while fostering an environment of trust, collaboration, and progress.
In 2022, we released our inaugural Growth and Impact Report, laying the foundation by introducing our key organizational initiatives, services, and long-standing mission. It was a foundational chapter, highlighting Oregon Tilth’s rich history and how our certification work is driving positive change in organic farming and food systems. This report provided a deep dive into our role in shaping organic standards and practices, emphasizing our work with partners, stakeholders, and staff to ensure sustainable agriculture for future generations.
Building on this strong foundation, the 2023 Growth and Impact Report shifted the focus to our collective influence and impact. With an emphasis on collaboration, we showcased the essential role our staff plays in various programs and initiatives across the nation. The stories highlighted how our staff’s expertise and commitment to cross-collaborative projects have directly influenced our clients’ success, policy advocacy efforts, and national partnerships. This report demonstrated the power of unity and how Oregon Tilth’s far-reaching influence supports not just the organic community but also broader efforts in environmental conservation and sustainability.
Now, in 2024, we celebrate our 50th anniversary with a Growth and Impact Report that ties together our history, current impact, and a vision for the future. This year’s edition is a reflection of how far we’ve come—through the voices of our organizational leaders, the stories of our clients, and partners. With a focus on leadership, innovation, and collaboration. We present engaging stories from our clients, and the Northwest Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) mentors and mentees, assembled by the USDA National Organic Program. Bringing awareness to the growing demand for organic agriculture. This report exemplifies Oregon Tilth’s commitment to leading the organic movement, educating stakeholders, and shaping policies that benefit people and the planet.
As we look to the future, this year’s Growth and Impact Report will inspire our community to continue supporting and expanding the organic sector, ensuring that our values of sustainability and equity guide the next 50 years and beyond.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Together, we are building a future grounded in organic leadership, innovation, and collective impact.
A word from our leadership
Oregon Tilth Timeline: 50 Years of Organic Leadership and Vision
1974
1986
Oregon Tilth formally incorporated as a non-profit organization.
1990
Oregon Tilth plays a key role in advocating for the Organic Foods Production Act, which becomes part of the 1990 Farm Bill.
1991
Oregon Tilth expands its certification services beyond Oregon, gaining recognition as a leader in organic certification standards in the U.S. and internationally.
2002
Oregon Tilth becomes one of the first USDA-accredited organic certifying agents under the newly established National Organic Program (NOP).
2002
The USDA National Organic Program officially launches, and Oregon Tilth becomes a key certifier under the new federal regulations.
2006
Oregon Tilthpartners with the Accredited Certifiers Association (ACA) to enhance collaboration and consistency among organic certifiers in the U.S.
2009
Oregon Tilth co-founds the Organicology conference, bringing together diverse stakeholders in the organic agriculture movement.
2010
Oregon Tilth enters into a long-term agreement with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to provide training and technical assistance.
2012
Oregon Tilth established a Mexico branch office with a physical location in the country. Continuing to offer organic certification under Mexico Organic Standards (LPO).
2017
Oregon Tilth publishes “Breaking New Ground: Farmer Perspectives on Organic Transition,” a key report that informs future USDA investments in organic support.
2019
Oregon Tilth restructures its service delivery model to improve efficiency and scalability, transitioning to a team-based model to better serve clients and stakeholders.
2022
USDA’s National Organic Program, Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), establishes new partnerships and mentorship opportunities for transitioning organic producers across the U.S.
2023
Oregon Tilth implements the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rule, collaborating with the USDA to ensure greater integrity and compliance within the organic industry.
2023
Oregon Tilth expands its partnership with the NRCS to establish a new national agreement, increasing the number of organic specialists.
2024
Oregon Tilth celebrates its 50th anniversary, reflecting on its legacy of leadership, innovation, and collaboration in the organic movement.