Congressional Organic Caucus

Mission

The Organic Caucus is a bipartisan association of congressional members dedicated to enhancing the availability and understanding of information related to the production and processing of organic agricultural products. The caucus shall serve the public interest through the promotion of sound policies that advance organic production and marketing.

Rationale

The organic food industry, with an average annual growth rate of 20% a year, continues to be one of the fastest growing sectors in agriculture. The International Trade Center UNCTAD/WTO estimates that US retail sales in 2001 were between $9 and $9.5 billion.

In October of 2002, national organic standards went into effect. Consumers are demanding greater organic product availability, media attention is on the rise, and farmers increasingly look for scientifically proven, peer-reviewed solutions to their organic production problems. In spite of rapid growth, organic agriculture priorities are not sufficiently reflected in the current government’s research agenda or fiscal commitments.

Because of its ability to minimize impacts on soil, air and water quality, organic agriculture provides a unique opportunity to increase sustainable business practices, protect the environment, and preserve natural resources.

Goals