Understanding Risk Management Webinar for Transitioning to Organic Production
Transitioning to organic production involves a shift in farming practices and entails certain risks that need to be managed effectively.
This webinar discusses several key considerations for transitioning organic producers regarding various risks that require careful management to improve long-term success. Gaining a better understanding of how to prepare for, mitigate, and navigate the risks of transitioning to organic production systems may improve financial outcomes and bolster your organic farm plan.
Register HerePresenter Joyce E. Ford, OCIA-TOPP Mentor, started her farming career as an organic vegetable farmer in the 1970’s. She was an organic inspector for over 20 years, and helped organize the International Organic Inspectors Association (IOIA), trained organic inspectors and developed many organic inspection curriculum materials. She and her husband, Jim Riddle, started and operated Blue Fruit Farm, a 5 acre certified organic blueberry and other small fruit farm in SE Minnesota.
In 2013, Joyce and Jim were awarded EcoFarm’s Stewards of Sustainable Agriculture. In 2019, they received the MOSES Farmer of the Year award. In 2020, they retired to New Hampshire. Joyce joined NOFA-NH Board of Directors and was instrumental in assisting NH certified organic farmers when the Department of Agriculture, Markets and Food abruptly closed down their organic certification program. She is currently chair of the International Organic Accreditation Service’s Accreditation Committee which provides accreditation to numerous organic and sustainable certification bodies globally.
Co-presenter Dr. Angela Jackson has experience in organic crop and livestock production as a certified organic producer in South Dakota and a lead organic auditor for the organic food and feed sectors. She has been evaluating organic farming systems for over 15 years and brings a knowledgeable perspective of risk management for transitioning producers.
During the presentation Ford and Jackson will discuss key concepts of risk management for transitioning organic producers including:
- Understanding Organic Standards: Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and standards set by organic certification bodies. Understanding what is expected can help in planning and managing risks associated with compliance.
- Transition Period Management: Recognize that there is a transition period during which you must adhere to organic practices without being able to label your products as organic. Manage risks associated with this period by planning for potential yield fluctuations and market uncertainties.
- Soil Health Management: Organic farming heavily relies on soil health. Implement practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting to improve soil fertility and structure, which can mitigate risks associated with soil degradation and nutrient deficiencies.
- Pest and Disease Management: Organic producers often face challenges in pest and disease management without synthetic chemical inputs. Implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, such as crop diversification, beneficial insect habitat preservation, and mechanical controls, to minimize risks associated with crop damage.
- Market Risks: Understand the market demand for organic products and potential price fluctuations. Diversify your market channels, establish contracts with buyers, and consider value-added opportunities to manage market risks effectively.
- Financial Management: Transitioning to organic production may require upfront investments in infrastructure, equipment, and certification. Develop a detailed budget, consider available grants and financial assistance programs, and plan for potential cash flow challenges during the transition period.
- Knowledge and Education: Continuously educate yourself about organic farming practices, regulations, and emerging technologies. Access resources such as workshops, webinars, and extension services to stay informed and adapt to new challenges.
- Risk Assessment and Monitoring: Regularly assess potential risks to your organic operation and develop strategies to mitigate them. Monitor key indicators such as soil health, pest populations, disease, illness, drift, weed pressure, and market trends to identify and address risks in a timely manner.
- Contingency Planning: Develop contingency plans for unforeseen events such as extreme weather events, crop failures, or supply chain disruptions. Having backup strategies in place can help minimize the impact of such risks on your organic operation.
- Documentation and Record-Keeping: Maintain detailed records of your farming practices, inputs, and certifications to demonstrate compliance with organic standards. Accurate documentation can help in audits, certification renewals, and resolving disputes, reducing risks related to non-compliance.
By integrating these key concepts into your risk management approach, transitioning organic producers can navigate the challenges and uncertainties inherent in organic farming while maximizing the opportunities for success.
This program is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).