Initial Review of Your Organic Certification Application

The Initial Review Process of Your Organic Certification Application

Summary: After Oregon Tilth receives your organic certification application and payment, our staff conducts an initial review of your Organic System Plan (OSP). During this stage, your certification officer may contact you with questions or request additional documentation. This is a normal part of the process. Be sure to check your email, voicemail, and mail regularly so your application keeps moving forward.

What is the Initial Review?

The initial review is the first formal step in evaluating your Organic System Plan (OSP). It begins once Oregon Tilth has received your application and fees.

You will receive an email notification that includes:

• Confirmation that your application is under review
• The name of your certification officer
• Contact information for your assigned reviewer

What Happens During the Initial Review?

• Compliance check: Our staff carefully review your OSP for potential compliance issues with USDA Organic regulations and related organic standards.
  
  
• Questions and clarifications: It is common for your certification officer to contact you with questions or request additional documentation. This helps us confirm that your practices meet organic requirements.
  
  
• Communication: Prompt responses to emails or phone calls are essential. If we cannot reach you, the process may be delayed.

After the Initial Review

Once the review is complete, you will receive an official letter by email or postal mail. This letter will include:

• Details about information needed for your upcoming inspection
• Any outstanding compliance issues
• Helpful reminders to prepare for the next stage of certification

Why This Step Matters

The initial review ensures that:

• Your OSP is complete and ready for inspection
• Potential compliance concerns are identified early
• Your application progresses smoothly to the inspection stage

Technical Notes

• The USDA National Organic Program (NOP) requires a complete OSP as the foundation for organic certification.
• If additional documentation is requested, submit it as soon as possible to avoid delays.
• Keep your primary contact information current with Oregon Tilth so you do not miss important communication.