Yesterday, Secretary Vilsack discussed his vision for U.S. organic agriculture and USDA's efforts to ensure its continued success during remarks at the Organic Trade Association conference in Washington, D.C.

Additionally, the National Organic Program (NOP) has added historical data on certified operations going back to 2009 on our website.

Vilsack: Vision for U.S. Organic Agriculture  

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack discussed his vision for U.S. organic agriculture and USDA efforts to ensure its continued success during remarks to the Organic Trade Association on May 14.  

USDA will be providing new guidance on organic production to all USDA agencies in support of organic agriculture and markets. USDA is now asking each agency to address the needs of the organic sector in their programs and services.

"Organic agriculture is one of the fastest growing segments of American agriculture and helps farmers receive a higher price for their product as they strive to meet growing consumer demand," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.  

"These new options will extend the safety net provided by crop insurance and provide fair and flexible solutions to organic producers. Coupled with the new guidance for agencies to support this growing sector, USDA recognizes that organics are gaining market share and is helping boost this emerging segment."

In attendance with Vilsack at the OTA conference was the new Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Administrator Anne Alonzo. Alonzo sent out live Tweets during the event.

Full Announcement  

New: Historical Lists of Certified Operators  

Previously, several researchers analyzing trends in the organic sector asked the NOP for historical lists of certified organic operations.  

To support these efforts, downloadable historical data on certified operations from 2009 forward are now available on our website.  

As of the end of 2012, 17,750 organic farms and processing facilities in the United States were certified to the USDA organic standards. Worldwide, there are now approximately 25,000 certified organic operators in more than 100 countries.

The certified operations list allows buyers and sellers and the public to identify and connect with organic stakeholders across the supply chain. The list provides each operation's:

• Name and location
• Scope of organic certification (crops, livestock, wild crops, handling)
• Certifying agent
• Listing of products.

Access Current + Historical Lists of Certified
Organic Operations 

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.