Investing in people

Supporting Transition

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. Learn more about organic certification here, or by contacting getcertified@tilth.org.

Research

Understanding the motivations and challenges associated with transition has been at the heart of our partnership with Oregon State University (OSU). 

In 2016, we surveyed over 1,800 farmers who were interested in transition. The report highlights recommendations for organizational, research, and policy support for farmers in transition:

• Mentorship provided by experienced organic farmers
• One-on-one technical assistance
• Effective weed and pest management strategies
• Long-term trials, on-farm demonstrations, and participatory outreach
• Yield and transition data myth busting

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 helps connect farmers to innovative methods and resources.