Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about being a member of the co-op, membership perks, equity, where to buy feed, sustainability, certification or any other question? Contact our friendly and knowledgeable staff on our Farmer Hotline at 888-809-9297 Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Central Time or by e-mail at: farmerhotline@organicvalley.coop

What is the CROPP Cooperative business model?

In 1988, a group of Wisconsin farmers who shared a desire to save family farms and a belief in sustainable agriculture founded CROPP Cooperative. Its brands, Organic Valley, Organic Prairie and Mighty, soon followed. Today, CROPP is America's largest cooperative of organic farmers, and Organic Valley is one of the nation's leading organic brands.

CROPP Cooperative is an independent and farmer-owned cooperative, which means the farmers have a voice in the cooperative because they own it. The farmers—through the board of directors, elected by the farmers from the farmer membership—uphold sustainable farming practices such as pasturing animals and treating them humanely, ensuring CROPP farmers meet and often exceed USDA organic requirements.

While employees are the day-to-day decision-makers of the cooperative, members are tasked with upholding our mission by carefully reviewing and updating our bylaws, policies and standards, and advising the board and staff on critical topics. Members also have the important responsibility of voting for their board of directors and regional representatives - who are all farmers. Regardless of the farm’s size, location, products, or volume, each farm has equal voting power.

How can I become a member of the co-op?

We encourage interested farmers to first learn about what it means to be a member of our cooperative. At CROPP Cooperative we have a number of different producer pools. Each pool represents a unique organic commodity and has a specific set of requirements that must be followed.

If you are looking to farm with us or have any questions, contact us on our Farmer Hotline at 888-809-9297, Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Central or by email at farmerhotline@organicvalley.coop.

What does it take to transition to organic farming?

Transitioning land takes 36 months from the date of the last application of a prohibited substance. Dairy livestock may be transitioned in 12 months concurrent with the third year of the lands transition.

For more information visit our Transitioning page and contact your local organic certifier to learn more.

What does it cost to be a member of CROPP Cooperative/Organic Valley?

The answer to this question starts with ownership: We aren't owned by a large corporation or private equity firm -- we're owned by family farmers. Being an independent, family-farmer-owned cooperative is incredibly important to who we are. Our farmer-owners' equity investment is a vital part of the cooperative's financial security and remaining independent today and for generations to come. A member's equity requirement is equal to 5.5% of the farm's base annual income from products sold to the cooperative. Payment options are available.

Where do you have farms?

CROPP represents around 1,600 organic family farmers in 29 states. Here's a handy way to find Organic Valley farms near you: Who's Your Farmer

If you're interested in learning more about membership in our cooperative, please reach out! We would love to speak with you and connect you with other farmer-members in your area. Contact our Farmer Hotline at 888-8090-9297.