There has been significant discussion recently around the concept of an industry-led transitional certification program administered by USDA’s Process Verified Program (PVP). A transitional certification has the potential to support producers through the significant task of transitioning their farms to organic by providing exposure to the certification process and organic regulations, access to USDA support programs for producers, and, potentially, premiums for their “certified transitional” crops.
OTA's Transitional Certification Task Force will advise OTA on the benefits, principles, scope, and risks of such a program as we consider submitting an application for transitional certification to USDA. Contact Nathaniel Lewis directly if you are interested in serving on the task force.