Quick Links

NOP Homepage

Join Our List

Our Vision

Organic Integrity from Farm to Table
Consumers Trust the Organic Label

Announcement

November 20, 2015

The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP) has published an update to the NOP Handbook. We are also pleased to highlight the release of two new NOP fact sheets and to announce a new blog from the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

NOP Handbook Updates

The National Organic Program has published an updated Program Handbook document: NOP 2606: Processing Requests for Temporary Variances.

NOP 2606 describes the policies and procedures used to evaluate requests for temporary variances from the production and handling requirements of the USDA organic regulations submitted by certifying agents or State organic programs.

To see all NOP guidance, instructions and policies:

NOP Handbook.

NOP Publishes New Fact Sheets

The Agricultural Marketing Service's National Organic Program has posted two new fact sheets to its website: Making the Transition to Organic Production & Handling and Technical & Financial Assistance for Organic Producers.

Making the Transition to Organic Production & Handling: This document provides an organized set of resources that help producers and handlers transition their operations to organic.

Technical & Financial Assistance for Organic Producers: This document outlines a variety of technical, educational, and financial resources available to organic producers through several USDA agencies and external non-profit organizations.

Find other fact sheets regarding organic regulations,
certification, practices and more: NOP Fact Sheets.

NRCS Releases Organic Farming Handbook
Yesterday, November 19, 2015, the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) posted a blog introducing a new resource to support conservation on organic farms. The article highlights key elements of the new handbook, how it was developed and potential benefits for organic producers. Access Blog: NRCS Organic Farming Handbook.

About the Agricultural Marketing Service
USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) facilitates the competitive and efficient marketing of agricultural products. Through its National Organic Program, AMS facilitates trade and ensures the integrity of organic agricultural products by consistently implementing organic standards and enforcing compliance with the regulations throughout the world. Learn more.

About the USDA Organic Insider

The USDA Organic Insider informs the organic community on a wide range of functions, including regulatory updates, requests for public comments, and USDA programs and services.

You are receiving this email because you elected to receive selected updates from the Agricultural Marketing Service. You may manage your profile to receive additional updates or unsubscribe at any time by using the links below.