As the Administration and Congress transitions, the Organic Trade Association was on Capitol Hill and at the Department of Agriculture (USDA) last week advocating for regulatory consistency and oversight that ensure the organic sector continues to thrive.
Over the course of 26 meetings, six of them with Members of Congress attending, 23 OTA members and farmers from across the country spoke on the need for continued government investment in the National Organics Program as well as concerns that increasing fraud from overseas imports endanger consumer trust in the USDA organics seal. Members who have been impacted by grant funds being frozen shared their stories and the value of investments in rural infrastructure to help more farmers transition and access organic markets. Tariffs and their impact on both exports and imports were also a topic that offices wanted to discuss with our members.
“I felt like this Hill visit was worthwhile and made a difference. I met directly with my Congressman and one of my Senators as well as other legislative staff,” said Mac Erhardt, Owner and Board Chairman of Albert Lea Seed. We had real conversations about the value that organic agriculture brings to rural America, and how important it is to keep the USDA Organic label strong by funding the NOP. I also got to voice the concerns that Organic farmers have about organic imports of corn and soybeans, and how important it is that imported organic grain is held to the same standard as domestically-produced organic grain.”
Educating members on the unique role of organic was also a priority. Deciding to farm, produce or start an organic business is a choice and many organic operations are “split operations” that produce both conventional and organic products. Unlike many other sectors, organic farmers and businesses desire greater regulatory input from the government to ensure they can continue to thrive in a competitive global environment. A well-funded and staffed National Organic Program is foundational for consumer trust in those regulations.
OTA was fortunate to have six farmers in attendance during the fly-in who were able to share their real-world experiences of farming organic along with challenges they face in recent years. Ensuring that market development for their products continue is a priority as well as protecting government programs that prevent fraudulent imports like the Organic Certification Trade and Tracking Program (OCTT) as well as data collection programs like the Organic Data Initiative (ODI) that helps farmers and businesses make informed decisions by understanding market trends and opportunities for growth.
“It is so important to take advantage of attending fly-ins with organizations such as the Organic Trade Association,” said Carolyn Olson, owner and operator of Fairview Farm as well as Vice President of the Minnesota Farm Bureau. “Sitting down for conversations with our Senators, Representatives, and staff and putting a face to the issues by telling our stories makes an impact and can drive positive change.”
As events continue to unfold in Washington, D.C., OTA remains steadfast in our commitment to protecting and advancing the interests of the organic community. Whether advocating for fair policies, securing essential funding, or ensuring that the integrity of organic standards is upheld, we stand ready to champion the needs of farmers, businesses, retailers, and everyone who relies on a strong and thriving organic supply chain. The coming months may present challenges, but we will continue to push for progress and ensure that organic remains a vital and growing part of our economy and food system.