If you're a farmer looking to get your farmland certified as organic, there are several steps you need to take to ensure that your land meets the requirements for organic certification. While the process can be time-consuming and complex, the benefits of organic certification can be substantial. Organic land is more valuable than non-organic land, and banks are beginning to appraise land based on soil organic matter (SOM), which is a key indicator of soil health.
The first step in getting your farmland certified as organic is to create an Organic System Plan (OSP). The OSP is a detailed description of the farming practices you plan to use, including crop rotation, pest management, and soil fertility. The OSP must be developed in accordance with the National Organic Program (NOP) standards and must be updated annually.
Once you have developed your OSP, the next step is to find a USDA-accredited certifying agent. The certifying agent will review your OSP, inspect your farm, and verify that you are following the NOP standards. You will need to pay a fee to the certifying agent for their services, which can vary depending on the size and complexity of your farm.
After your farm has been inspected and certified, you will be able to label your products as "certified organic." This designation can help you to command higher prices for your products and can also help you to access new markets that require organic certification.
If you're looking for help with the certification process, there are several consultants who specialize in organic certification. Some consultants who offer this service include:
EcoAgronomics: https://ecoagronomics.com/
Organic Ag Advisors: https://www.organicagadvisors.com/
Earthwise Organics: https://earthwiseorganics.com/
Bob Waun, a real estate expert at DIRT Realty, notes that organic land is more valuable than non-organic land. He says, "The market for organic products is growing rapidly, and consumers are willing to pay a premium for organic products. This makes organic land more valuable than non-organic land, and can help farmers to increase the value of their farms."
In addition, banks are beginning to appraise land based on SOM, which is a key indicator of soil health. According to the USDA, "Soil organic matter (SOM) is a critical component of soil health that is essential for sustaining soil fertility, improving water holding capacity, and reducing erosion." By focusing on building healthy soil ecosystems and increasing SOM, farmers can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and increase productivity. This can make their farmland more valuable and sustainable over the long term.
In conclusion, getting your farmland certified as organic can be a complex process, but the benefits of organic certification can be substantial. By working with a USDA-accredited certifying agent and developing a comprehensive Organic System Plan, farmers can ensure that their farming practices meet the NOP standards and can access new markets for their products. With the help of consultants who specialize in organic certification, farmers can navigate the certification process and take advantage of the growing market for organic products. #bobwaun #buydirt #realestate #organicfarm #organicfarming