Transition to Organic
AND SUSTAINABILE AGRICULTURE
Oregon Tilth helps make transition accessible for all farmers interested in becoming certified organic. Our initiatives reflect that the transition process is a shared effort. We collaborate with expert partners to take on challenges in the organic transition process. Our focus is on technical assistance, relationship-building, and research that eliminates common barriers faced by transitioning producers.
Despite the attractive organic market potential, the transition to organic production is full of uncertainty. We work to lessen transition barriers through in-person and online education programs. Oregon Tilth’s annual webinar series, presented in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), provides practical advice from technical experts — soil scientists, plant ecologists, pest management specialists, and more — for transitioning farmers. We offer in-person and remote workshops, intensives, and training on the following topics:
We connect stakeholders across the entire organic supply chain. Our buyer-grower networking events enable all sides to discuss challenges and opportunities.
Additionally, we convene training on best practices where farmers share their own experiences to help decode complicated topics.
Understanding the motivations and challenges associated with transition has been at the heart of our partnership with USDA NRCS and Oregon State University (OSU).
In 2016, we surveyed over 1,800 farmers who participated in the NCRS Quality Incentives Program Organic Initiative between 2010 and 2015, with a focus on transition. The report highlights recommendations for organizational, research, and policy support for farmers in transition:
Oregon Tilth is putting the report findings into action. Our work to develop tools for increased farm viability and investment in the launch of an Organic Extension Program at OSU help connect farmers to innovative methods and resources.
Report
Breaking New Ground: Farmer Perspectives on Organic Transition, a joint report released by Oregon Tilth and Oregon State University's Center...
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On February 2, 2017, over 100 food system stakeholders met during the biannual Organicology conference's full-day "Transition and Growth in...
Read SummaryInterested in having Oregon Tilth provide a training, workshop or webinar? Want a staff member to attend and present at an upcoming event?
Send us an email at education@tilth.org.