Wondering where the NOP is focusing its efforts? Here's a preview:    

Clear Standards
Publishing clear standards is one of the most important things that we can do. This enables certifying agents to correctly interpret and apply the standards. Clear standards allow farms and businesses to design their structures and management practices accordingly.   

Market Access
Organic agriculture offers economic opportunity to many farmers. One of USDA's goals is to increase the number of certified organic operations by 20 percent by 2015. We want to especially look in the Southeastern United States and other underrepresented areas to expand opportunities.   

Consumer Protection 
The strength of the USDA organic seal is ultimately defined by the strength of the enforcement of the standards. We continue to rigorously investigate reported violations and push for the timely resolution of all complaints. We also would like to conduct more compliance audits of certifying agents and trade partnerships.

Information Technology
We need a modernized database that will connect certified operations across the global supply chain and integrate many of our current web resources into one. This would increase our ability to oversee a growing network of certifying agents and operators and provide better customer service to the organic community.

View NOP Update as presented at the Organic Trade Association Policy Conference 

The National Organic Program issued a memo to certifying agents regarding the criteria and qualifications for organic inspectors: 

View Memo  

The NOP facilitates trade and ensures integrity of organic agricultural products by consistently implementing organic standards and enforcing compliance with the regulations throughout the world. Learn more.