What’s Up with Organic Certification?

Buckle up, folks; this will be a longer-winded post than usual. If you are interested in the details of the organic certification process, you might find this interesting. Otherwise, now’s your chance to scroll away.

When speaking of Argento Acres, I’ve often used the word “sustainable” or “regenerative.” I’ve also said that I’m looking into organic certification for the farm. But what does any of it mean? And what have I done to have Argento Acres certified organic? These are excellent questions.

Sustainability means using growing practices that preserve the environment while allowing for a profitable harvest. Regenerative agriculture goes one step further to repair and improve the health of the land continually over time. Since previous generations of farming practices have damaged soil health, regenerative practices are increasingly crucial to a healthy food system. In short, sustainability seeks to do no further harm, and regenerative seeks to heal damaged ecosystems.

According to the USDA, “Organic is a labeling term that indicates that the food or other agricultural product has been produced through approved methods. These methods integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity.” The farmer must work with an organic certifier to create and implement an organic systems plan to be certified organic. Farmers must demonstrate adherence to the organic systems plans over time. Land previously managed with conventional practices typically takes a three- to five-year transition period before being eligible to be certified organic. The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) determines which materials are allowed in organic agriculture. These materials include non-synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides.

So where is Argento Acres in this process? Currently, we are at the very beginning of transitioning to USDA organic. Since I bought the farm, I’ve only used materials listed on the OMRI materials list. I use no herbicides at all, conventional or organic. I manage weeds by mowing or hand-pulling. I manage soil erosion through minimal tillage. I make some of my compost on-site. 

But, I still need a detailed organic systems plan, and I have much more to learn about managing a farm property organically. I need to keep more detailed records about the frequency and quantity of OMRI-listed materials applied. I also need to keep better records of the seeds and plants I’ve purchased. I am concerned that there needs to be a sufficient buffer zone between my conventional neighbor and the crops I want to be certified organic. 

I will need to work closely with an organic certifier to comply with the requirements for these and many other items. I had staff from the USDA and NRCS visit the farm, and I did apply for a USDA grant to cover the costs of working with a consultant to create my organic systems plan. Little by little, I’m working towards making it happen. However, considering I am also learning how to farm and run a profitable business simultaneously, it will likely take longer than I’d initially hoped. I need to carve out time and money, which are typically in short supply for a small start-up such as Argento Acres.

I prioritize growing top-quality, healthy crops and bringing them to my customers while caring for the land to the best of my ability. Ultimately, becoming certified organic will help my business grow because of consumers’ confidence in the organic seal. Organic certification is helpful because it speaks volumes about my growing practices when there isn’t an opportunity to explain them in person. However, the lack of certification does not mean organic management is not taking place. In my opinion, the best way to know how well a farmer cares for the environment is to talk one-on-one and ask questions.

Ideally, my goal is for Argento Acres to be a genuinely regenerative farm. While I see USDA organic certification as part of that process, the journey to regenerative farming continues after organic certification is acheived. But that’s a story for another day.