Resources
All resources listed below link to common helpful references used in organic production. This does not represent a comprehensive list of potential resources for your operation.
National Organic Program Standards and Resources
National Organic Program Standards
All certified operations are bound to the National Organic Program Standards. Accredited certifiers enforce these standards and ensure ongoing compliance. These standards provide definitions of terms and outline production requirements for organic crop, livestock, and handling operations.
Organic Certification Cost-Share Program
The USDA will refund your operation for 75% of your organic certification costs with your certifier, up to $750 per scope of certification.
USDA's Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP)
A regional partnership for ongoing technical assistance and mentorship opportunities for operations transitioning to organic production.
Accredited Certifiers Association Best Practices
Best Practice resources for organic certifiers navigating complexities and nuanced scenarios when enforcing the organic regulations, covering topics ranging from input material review to livestock traceability.
USDA Organic Integrity Database
A public database of all worldwide operations currently certified and those previously certified to the organic standards.
Origin of Livestock Final Rule
This Final Rule, effective April 5, 2023, describes requirements for the compliant sourcing of animals intended for organic certification.
Input Material References
National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances
All input materials used in organic production must be approved by your certifier prior to use. All ingredients in your input materials must be allowed per the National List in order to remain in compliance.
Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI)
Several material manufacturers send their input materials to be OMRI approved, which is an approval that many certifiers accept when determining whether an operation can use an input material in their organic production. OMRI also lists generic ingredient allowances and restrictions on their website.
Washington State Dept. of Agriculture (WSDA)
WSDA maintains a list of input materials they have reviewed and approved for use in organic production. Materials included on WSDA’s Organic Input Material List are often accepted by organic certifiers.
California Dept. of Food & Agriculture (CDFA)
CDFA maintains a list of fertilizer materials approved for use in organic production in California.
Record-Keeping Templates
National Organic Program Record-Keeping Templates for Crop Producers
The NOP provides templates for crop producers to ensure compliant record-keeping for all activities on the farm, from harvesting to sales.
ATTRA Sustainable Agriculture Program Documentation Forms
Free, downloadable record-keeping forms for organic crop and livestock producers.
National Organic Program Record-Keeping Templates for Livestock producers
The NOP provides templates for livestock producers to ensure compliant record-keeping for all activities on the farm, from health care records to feeding.