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The Organic Produce Association (OPA) today wrote to Congressional leaders requesting increased support for USDA programs impacting organic producers.

Specifically, OPA sent a letter to the leaders of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, who author USDA’s annual spending legislation, to request funding for the following federal initiatives:

• National Organic Program: Develops and enforces consistent national standards for USDA certified organic products.
• Organic Transitions Research Program: Supports the development and implementation of research, extension, and higher education programs to improve the competitiveness of organic producers, as well as those who are adopting organic practices.
• Organic Certification Cost-Share Program: Provides cost share assistance to producers and handlers of agricultural products who are obtaining or renewing their certification under the National Organic Program.
• Organic Production and Market Data Initiative: USDA provides domestic and international price reporting, economic analyses, census data, and other information on organic production and marketing.
• Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program: USDA’s premier research program for sustainable agriculture research.

“Whether it’s ensuring USDA’s organic seal remains the gold standard, encouraging more producers to transition to organic, increased organic research, or making sure USDA has the right economic data necessary, each of these programs is important to a growing organic industry,” said Theojary Crisantes, acting Chair of OPA. “We’re hopeful Congress will continue to support this work to ensure that affordable, healthy, sustainable organic produce is available to all consumers who want it.”

Legislation is expected to be drafted and considered by the House and Senate in the coming months.

The Organic Produce Association (OPA) consists of members in the organic produce industry who focus on science-based policymaking and the ability to be innovative while respecting the tradition of organics and the integrity of the USDA Organic Seal.

Read the Full Letter