CRP Initiative
Thank you for your interest in organic crop production. The future of sustainable agriculture is important to us all and we would like to work with you to bring your land into organic production. We hope you will find the following materials helpful as you move forward.
By farming organically, you can help support local farmers while promoting environmental stewardship of your land. Organic farming systems focus on building healthy soils and using sustainable fertility methods to produce crops without the use of energy-intensive fertilizers and herbicides. Studies have also shown comparable yields, profitability and return on investment in organic farming models when compared to conventional crop farming. This is a unique opportunity for your land to be used for organic production because most CRP land can be certified organic immediately.
Information about Organic Farming
MOSES Organic Fact Sheet - Answers basic questions about Organic Agriculture.
Opportunities in Agriculture: Transitioning to Organic Production – SARE – Excellent overview of organic farming practices, certification, resources, and contacts.
Contacts
ATTRA Organic Farming Resources - An excellent resource for sustainable crop production and certification information.
Rodale Institute - A non-profit research organization and working farm that studies tools and techniques used in sustainable crop production. They offer a free Online Organic Transition Course on their website that is a great introduction to organics. They also have contact information for certifiers throughout the country and a directory of crop and soil management resources.
USDA Organic Agriculture Briefing Room - Offers information on the steps to organic certification, National organic statistics and information on consumer demand for organic products.
Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service (MOSES) - Although this is a Midwest based organization, there are many resources and tools available that can be applied throughout the country. There are guides to organic transition, useful fact sheets, and a toll-free farmer transition hotline.
Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) - Use this link to find your nearest NRCS office. The NRCS can help you learn about additional conservation measures you may qualify for such as grassed waterways, conservation buffers and erosion control.
Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE) - Grant-making institution that gives grants to farmers and others interested in conducting research and education efforts around sustainable agriculture. Contact your regional office for information on grants.
USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) - Use this link to find your local FSA office to assist you with any questions on the federal CRP program.
