Monthly Archives: October 2024

Charting a Bold Path Forward

OFRF’s New Strategic Plan (2024-2029)

By OFRF staff

At the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF), we’ve always been guided by our commitment to fostering the improvement and widespread adoption of organic farming systems. Our mission remains at the heart of everything we do: to cultivate organic research, education, and federal policies that help bring more farmers and acreage into organic production. And now, with the approval of our 2024-2029 strategic plan, we’re more focused and energized than ever to make this vision a reality.

“We are thrilled to unveil our new five-year strategic plan, representing a significant step forward for OFRF and the organic farming community. This plan not only reinforces our commitment to fostering organic agriculture but also sets ambitious goals to broaden our community and deepen our commitment to equity. These goals will guide our efforts over the next five years, ensuring that organic farming is recognized as the leading form of agriculture, benefiting both farmers and the planet.” April Thatcher, President of OFRF’s Board of Directors and founder and farmer of April Joy Farm.

Our new strategic plan sets the course for the next five years, outlining ambitious goals that align with our mission, vision, and values. It’s a roadmap that builds on our foundation, adapts to the challenges of today, and prepares us for the future of organic farming.

Why We’re Excited About This Plan

This plan reflects who we are as an organization and what we stand for. It represents a collective effort—from staff, board members, and farmers—coming together to set priorities to move organic farming forward.

At the core of the plan are some exciting initiatives we can’t wait to share.

Supporting Farmers, Listening to Their Needs 

Farmers are at the heart of everything we do at OFRF, and our strategic plan strengthens this commitment. By regularly gathering feedback from organic and transitioning producers, we’ll launch new initiatives to directly support growers, shape research and education around their most pressing challenges, and create stronger connections between farmers, researchers, and local organizations. From creating more structured opportunities for farmers to share their insights, which will help guide our work, to new resources addressing climate threats—we’re focused on ensuring farmers have the tools they need to thrive while leading the way in building resilient, sustainable farming systems.

Advancing Climate Solutions Through Organic Practices

We know that organic farming can be a powerful tool in mitigating climate change. Our plan prioritizes efforts to expand the role of organic systems in climate resilience and sustainability. We’ll be working on campaigns and educational efforts to showcase the real-world, on-the-ground benefits of organic farming in addressing climate challenges.

Expanding Research and Education Opportunities

Over the next five years, we’re committed to expanding the availability and access to science-based resources for farmers, ranchers, and ag professionals. Our Organic Research Hub (coming soon!) will serve as a central platform for sharing innovative research and practical applications in an easy-to-use way that promotes the long-term success of organic farming systems.

Building Our Advocacy Work

We are expanding our advocacy work to ensure that the voices of organic farmers are heard at the highest levels of decision-making. We will continue to represent the needs of farmers in Washington, D.C., and in the halls of Congress, advocating for policies and USDA programs that advance organic agriculture. By doing so, we aim to create a more equitable and supportive landscape for all farmers striving to farm more sustainably.

Deepening Our Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

Organic farming can only thrive if it’s accessible and inclusive. Our strategic plan emphasizes our responsibility to dismantle systemic barriers within agriculture and to foster a diverse and equitable food system. We’ll continue to amplify BIPOC farmer voices, increase outreach to underserved communities, and work toward a food system that benefits everyone.

What’s Next for OFRF

This plan is about more than setting goals—it’s about making meaningful change. With our new strategic priorities in place, we’re eager to roll up our sleeves and get to work on the specific actions that will drive the organic movement forward.

We’ve set ambitious goals for the next five years, and we know we’ll need the support of our community—farmers, researchers, partners, and advocates—to make them a reality. Together, we will take bold steps to ensure that organic farming not only grows but leads the way in creating healthy, resilient people, ecosystems, and economies.

“As we embark on this exciting journey with our new strategic plan, we’re committed to fostering collaboration and inclusivity within the organic farming community. Together, we can address the challenges ahead and work toward a sustainable future that benefits all farmers and our planet. We look forward to engaging with each of you as we turn our vision into action.” – Keith Richards, Chair of OFRF’s Board of Directors.

This is just the beginning, and we invite you to join us on this journey. Stay tuned for more updates as we begin to implement our plan and see the impact it will have on the future of organic agriculture.

Let’s work together to create a stronger, more sustainable future through organic farming. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about our progress and ways to support our work.

By |2024-10-28T15:46:01+00:00October 29th, 2024|News|

OFRF Hosts Congressional Organic Research Field Day at USDA Salinas ARS Station

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Local lawmakers and agricultural leaders tour Salinas ARS station, emphasizing the need for expanded funding for organic farming research.

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Oct. 23, 2024 — The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) hosted Representative Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) and Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and their staff alongside agricultural leaders and stakeholders for a field day visit to the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Salinas station. The visit highlighted the critical organic farming research led by Dr. Eric Brennan, emphasizing the need for increased funding to ensure the continuity and expansion of this impactful work.

Dr. Brennan’s research focuses on climate-smart and organic farming practices, particularly cover cropping and improved soil management. His efforts have provided practical, science-based solutions that boost farm resilience, reduce environmental impact, and enhance sustainability for both organic and conventional producers. However, despite the success of these projects, funding has remained stagnant since the mid-2000s, risking the loss of essential expertise and research advancements. OFRF commends Representatives Lofgren and Panetta for their active interest and support in championing organic agriculture. Their leadership is vital to advancing organic research, which benefits farmers, consumers, and the environment. In the greater Bay Area, from Monterey to Sonoma counties, over 1,550 organic producers are generating nearly $1.4 billion in annual gross sales—underscoring the significance of organic agriculture as a significant economic driver in this region.

“The 18th Congressional District is home to a thriving agricultural industry, and thanks to the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service Salinas station, it is also a hub for cutting-edge organic ag research,” said Congresswoman Lofgren. “Scientists’ work to mitigate crop diseases and promote sustainable production practices will help protect farmers’ livelihoods and preserve America’s food supply in the long term. In Congress, I will continue to support initiatives that advance our understanding of organic crops and boost the ag economy in California and nationwide.”

“Our farmers on the Central Coast rely on a robust R&D pipeline to share the bounty of our home with the rest of the world,” said Rep. Panetta. “The work of local researchers at the USDA’s Agricultural Research Station Salinas is helping to improve soil health, pest management, and climate resilience for organic and conventional farms in California’s 19th Congressional District and across the country. I look forward to ensuring that the federal government plays its part so that our innovation continues to bolster our agriculture.”

Despite organic agriculture’s growing market share, less than one percent of ARS funding is allocated to organic research, which has limited innovation and support for organic producers. OFRF has advocated for more robust funding for these initiatives, emphasizing their broader benefits, including enhanced soil health, reduced pesticide use, and improved economic and environmental resilience for farmers.

“Over 20 years ago, OFRF successfully advocated for Congress to create a research position at USDA’s Salinas station to focus specifically on organic farming,” said Brise Tencer, Executive Director of OFRF. “Dr. Brennan’s work has directly helped regional producers implement good soil health practices, advance climate-friendly agriculture, and dramatically increase the number of acres with cover crops in California. This is the type of research investment we want to see more of.”

Dr. Brennan’s research has led to improved soil health, higher crop yields, and more sustainable pest and weed management practices, empowering farmers across the region to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. However, to maintain and expand this research, the project requires an additional $1.5 million annually, which would support hiring a second scientist and broaden the project’s scope to address emerging challenges in organic farming.

Field day attendees reiterated the vital role of ongoing research in promoting organic and sustainable farming practices, stressing the need for increased funding to ensure the project’s long-term success. The event brought together leaders from the agricultural sector, including:

Following the field tours, discussions sparked several critical insights regarding the importance of continued investment in organic agriculture research. Here are the key takeaways from the event:

  • Resilience and Climate Adaptation: Investing in organic agriculture research builds resilience against climate change, providing regionally relevant solutions for organic management.
  • High Return on Investment: For every dollar invested in agricultural research, there is a $20 return to the economy, benefiting rural communities and local businesses.
  • National Demand for Organic Products: Continued research is essential to closing the gap between domestic production and growing consumer demand for organic products, reducing reliance on imports.

For more information and to stay updated on policy developments, sign up for OFRF’s newsletter featuring Gordon’s Policy Corner, a monthly update from our Senior Policy & Programs Manager.

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About Organic Farming Research Foundation

About OFRF: The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF), headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with a remote team based across the U.S., works to foster the improvement and widespread adoption of organic farming systems. OFRF cultivates organic research, education, and federal policies that bring more farmers and acreage into organic production. For more information about OFRF, please visit our website: http://www.ofrf.org/

Media Contact:
Ashley Dulaney, Communications Director, OFRF
ashley@ofrf.orf
P.O. Box 440, Santa Cruz, CA 95061

By |2024-12-05T21:13:52+00:00October 28th, 2024|News, Press Release|

Jazea Smith (she/her/hers)

Policy and Communications Intern, Fall 2024

email: policy[at]ofrf.org

Jazea Kalea Smith (she/her/hers) is the newest Policy and Communications Intern at OFRF. Graduating this Fall from California Polytechnic University, Humboldt, with a B.A. in Religious Studies and a minor in Oceanography, Jazea plans to continue her education with a graduate degree focused on resource management and sustainable food systems. She’s passionate about organic research, and the good these necessary transitions can do for the planet. Jazea is from the San Francisco Bay Area, loves to hike with her dog, read, and watch The West Wing (likely how she developed such a love for politics)!

By |2024-10-21T17:05:26+00:00October 21st, 2024|Interns|

Planting for Resilience

Reflections on Cover Crops and the Vital Role They Play in Organic Farming

By April Thatcher, farmer at April Joy Farm and OFRF Board President

cover crop seeds including oats, radish, vetch, barley, and red clover.

Cover Crop Seed at AJF | Oats, radish, vetch, barley, and red clover.

Cover crops are a central part of balance on my Southwest Washington farm. In fact, they’re a vital tool in organic systems across the United States, helping to regenerate the soil, suppress weeds, and build resilience in the face of a changing climate. And yet, I’ll admit, for all their benefits, cover crops have been a source of some head-scratching moments for me over the years.

When I first started using cover crops, I had a lot of questions—many of the same ones I still hear from other new growers today.

  • What mix of plants will work best with my soil type, climate, and crop needs? 
  • How do I know my cover crops are adding value to my system?
  • What type of equipment do I need to manage cover crops successfully?
  • And perhaps the most common question I get from fellow farmers is: How do I transition from a lush, green cover crop to a seedbed ready for planting without disturbing the soil too much?

Organic farming is a relationship between the land and the farmer, and I think of cover cropping as one big, ongoing conversation in this relationship. It’s a journey of experimentation, observation, learning, and refining techniques year after year. Each piece of land, each crop, and each season calls for a different approach, and what works for one farmer might not work for another. 

On my farm, I’ve spent years experimenting with different cover crop mixes and timing strategies. I currently use a mix of cover crops—grasses, legumes, and broadleafs—depending on what I observe the soil needs. Legumes like peas and clover can add nitrogen to the soil, while deep-rooted crops like daikon radishes help break up compacted layers and improve soil structure. The key for me is to support functional diversity—both above and below the ground.

The Role of Cover Crops in a Living Soil System

When we treat soil as simply a medium to grow crops, we miss out on the extraordinary potential it has to regenerate life, sequester carbon, improve the nutritional value of our food, reduce off farm inputs, and to act as a buffer against the many challenges we face today. 

Cover crops are a powerful tool to help unlock this potential. These crops are not meant to be harvested but rather are grown specifically to feed the soil. When used strategically, cover crops can help reduce soil erosion, capture and recycle nutrients, promote nitrogen fixation, increase organic matter, suppress weeds, and even manage pests—all while nurturing the living, complex web of life in our soils. 

Cover crops are a critical tool in the organic farmer’s tool box to help build resilience on the ground—not just in the soil but in our entire farm ecosystem. And that resilience is more important now than ever as climate change presents erratic new challenges to farmers across the country.

Lessons from the Field: Cover Cropping in Practice

A green tree frog perched on the leaf of a kale plant in an organic farm field.

Cover Crop Kale | Sometimes, we don’t mow or turn under our market crops after we’ve finished harvesting. We underseed cover crops directly into these fields because, like cover crops, these plants continue to provide benefits for our system. Case in point- this tree frog has it made in the shade. Photo credit: Lauren Ruhe

I’ve learned over the years that there is no one “right” way to utilize cover crops. I’ve surrendered to the reality that on highly diversified operations like mine, cover cropping is always going to be a process of experimentation, observation, and refinement. What works one year might not work exactly the same the next, and that’s okay. If we are observant and committed to keeping records of our trials, we can glean important knowledge every season of the year. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress.

After eighteen years of working with cover crops on my 24 acre farm, here’s a bit of what I have gleaned – what I would tell my new-farmer-self if I could:

  • Start simple and make small adjustments to your basic cover crop plan year over year. When I first started utilizing cover crops I was overly enthusiastic. Every year I’d try a bunch of different, complex seed mixes to try and find the perfect one. That was a mistake. I wish I’d stuck with a simple mix of two or three species (grass/legume/broadleaf) for the first few years. If I had done so, and made small refinements year over year, (adjust seeding rates, sowing dates, etc.) it would have saved me time in the long run. Instead of changing way too many variables every year, I would have built up a steady, reliable mix customized to my system faster- one that incrementally added stacking benefits to my system year over year. 
  • Pick only one (or two at most) goals. I had so many needs when I started using cover crops. I had soil compaction, low nitrogen, low organic matter levels, and erosion and leaching to worry about. But starting out, I would have been better off picking just one of these to focus on addressing through the use of cover crops instead of trying to solve all of them at once. Over time, you can build on your success. But aim for the small wins, having faith they will add up over time.
  • Be mindful of your equipment and resource limits. We have hot, dry summers at my farm. So interestingly, irrigation is a big challenge for me in terms of using summer cover crop crops. Same goes for sowing fall cover crops, which I want to sow as early as I can to maximize nitrogen fixation. Even though I have the equipment to sow, cultipack and terminate them successfully, if I can’t get them to germinate without water I’m at square one. If you don’t have equipment to crimp/roll cover crops or don’t have a flail mower, make sure to be strategic about the species in your mix. Have a plan for seeding, and have a plan for terminating your cover crops that is practical for your operation.
  • Nest your cover crops into your overall crop system. Your cover cropping plan has to work within the larger context of your farm plan. Part of this means being realistic about the resources (including labor) necessary to implement your cover crop strategy (see bullet point above). Part of this means being diligent about planning your cover cropping efforts as diligently as you do crops for your market. It’s all too easy in the heat of the season to bail on your cover cropping plan because some of the details aren’t quite worked out or you didn’t order seed, etc. Be intentional about making sure your cover crop system compliments versus competes with your market crop system. At my farm, tasks for cover crop soil prep, sowing, management, monitoring, and termination tasks are all included in my annual farm plan schedule. I don’t have to think about organizing or planning anything cover crop related once the season gets started; I can focus simply on implementation. 

Every farmer who wishes to utilize cover crops successfully has specific soil health needs, goals unique to their operation, and different equipment and time constraints. So while there’s no single, universally right approach to cover cropping, we can all benefit from taking a strategic approach to working with cover crops.

Picture of summer cover crop in bloom. Includes Oats, White flowering buckwheat, orange California poppies, and purple phacelia.

Summer Cover Crop Mix | A favorite combination for warm weather. Oats, Buckwheat, Poppies and Phacelia.

Bridging Experience with Research: OFRF’s New Guide to Cover Cropping

That’s why I’m so excited to share a valuable new resource for farmers: a comprehensive organic cover cropping guide developed through OFRF’s ongoing partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). This guide is designed to help farmers—whether they’re just starting out with cover crops or refining their strategies.

What makes this guide so valuable is that it’s grounded in both science and experience. It combines years of research on the benefits of cover cropping with practical, field-tested strategies from organic farmers like myself. It provides an overview of the steps for selecting cover crops, managing them through the growing season, and terminating them in a way that benefits both the soil and the farmer’s bottom line. And it offers a collection of other regionally specific resources for farmers to dive in deeper. You can also find more in depth information in OFRF’s Soil Health and Organic Farming guide to Cover Crop Selection and Management.

Whether you’re looking to improve your soil’s health, reduce off-farm inputs, support pollinators, or make your farm more resilient to climate change, cover crops can be a powerful tool in your toolkit. This guide is full of practical, research-based advice to help farmers make informed decisions about how to integrate cover crops into their systems.

By |2024-10-21T15:59:49+00:00October 21st, 2024|Farmer Stories, News|

First Frost and Federal Deadlines

A Call for Action on Congressional Investments in Organic Research

farm field with first frost of winter

Earlier this morning we had our first frost of the year here on the farm in Vermont; late for our area yet it came all the same. The arrival of frost, whether early or late, is inevitable for the Northern regions of the country, a seasonal deadline that irrevocably holds firm. The same can’t be said for the Farm Bill or the federal appropriations process, behind their deadlines by 25 months and two months, respectively. But, both of these pieces of policy face a real deadline come December. Just as frost signals the arrival of a new phase in the agricultural year, the pending deadlines for these federal actions marks a pivotal moment for the future of agricultural research, climate resilience, and conservation programming.

Why the Farm Bill and Appropriations Processes Matter

Both the Farm Bill and the federal appropriations processes are the primary drivers of agricultural research policy, especially for those interested in organic production systems. At OFRF, our core concerns are:

  • Building resiliency to both climate and supply chain disruption through organic management and more localized food systems.
  • Investing in research for organic agriculture in order to provide answers to pressing environmental and production challenges. 
  • Supporting the expansion of organic production to meet increasing market demand for organic products.
  • Making sure organic producers, and those interested in transitioning to organic production, have the research tools and opportunities needed to thrive.

Our existing Farm Bill and Appropriations Priorities still call for both legislative vehicles to authorize and then robustly fund organic agriculture research programs that our farmers so desperately need. 

Unfortunately, progress on these crucial processes has been slow, and now Congress has just a couple short months left to meet the December deadlines. A delay beyond that will have real-world impacts—stalled funding could limit the USDA’s ability to support conservation programs, climate-smart practices, and organic research that underpins a resilient agricultural system.

Like our late first frost in the NE, increased federal investment in agricultural research is long awaited. Every dollar invested in research funding generates $20 in public benefits. Despite this high return on investment, funding for agricultural research has fallen by nearly a third over the past two decades. Today, organic produce makes up more that 15% of the total market, and yet less than 2% of USDA’s research budget is allocated to organic topics, and less than 1% of the Agricultural Research Service’s (ARS) budget is dedicated to organic research.

An Opportunity to Act During Congressional Recesses

As we’ve highlighted before, Congressional recess is a unique opportunity for you to engage directly with your elected officials, as many will be back in their home states and districts. It’s a great time to attend town halls, community events, listening sessions, or other scheduled appearances to hear from them and, most importantly, to have your voice be heard. Organizationally, OFRF is working to bring Members of Congress to organic research fields, joining with coalitions to express our appetite for a Farm Bill now, and bringing the stories of research projects to decision makers across the federal government this Congressional Recess. 

Whether you’re a farmer, a researcher, or simply an eater, this is your chance to ask questions and emphasize the importance of strong federal support for organic agriculture research. Explain that organic agricultural research is not just for certified organic operations but benefits the entire agricultural sector by promoting climate resilience and sustainable practices. Check your local news sources for upcoming Town Halls and other events with your representatives.

Questions to ask your representatives:

  • How are they prioritizing funding for organic agricultural research in the upcoming Farm Bill and appropriations processes?
  • Will they commit to increasing investments in organic research to help meet national climate, conservation, and nutrition goals?
  • What specific steps are they taking to ensure that USDA programs support organic practices and long-term soil health?

Just as we all are noticing our signals of changing seasons in our home environments, these federal deadlines mark an important milestone for agricultural policy. December is fast approaching, and how Congress decides to act will shape the future of agricultural research for years to come. To continue the growth and success of organic agriculture and the businesses that rely on it, we need public investments that support the researchers who are answering crucial agricultural questions.

If you’re interested in getting involved or want to know more about advocating for organic research investments, please reach out to us. Let’s work together to secure a sustainable and resilient future for agriculture, one where organic practices receive the support they need to benefit all.

Eat well and breathe deeply,

Gordon

By |2024-10-10T17:48:55+00:00October 10th, 2024|Gordon's Policy Corner, News|

Farmer-Led Trials Program Spotlight: A Different Chick Farm

Written by Mary Hathaway, OFRF’s Research & Education Program Manager

Tiffany Stanley, A Different Chick Farm

A Different Chick Farm is a Certified Organic family farm on just under 6 acres in Johnson City, Tennessee. Tiffany Stanley and her family began growing food for themselves as homesteaders, but saw demand from the local community. From this start in 2018, they expanded their operation into an abundant production featuring rare and heirloom fruits and vegetables, with a large focus on unique pepper varieties. Half of the farm is now a mixed orchard, planted with apples, peaches, nectarines, cherries, plums, pears, blackberries, raspberries and more. Rounding out the offerings at this diverse farm is a flock of heritage breed chickens that are pasture-raised. 

With the help of her son and husband, Tiffany grows over 300 types of peppers, mostly to create value-added products such as hot sauces, pickles, and jellies. The farm sells their pepper products and fresh produce at two local farmers markets, and a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. Their homesteading spirit continues to grow, as they look to limit outside inputs into the farm and build a sustainable system with on-farm fertility management. 

Producing On-Farm Compost to Reduce Inputs

A homesteader at heart, Tiffany wanted to explore how the farm could be more self-sustaining, especially in building their soil health with on-farm inputs. She was curious if the farm could make compost that could match the yields of commercial fertilizers. Building an on-farm compost regimen could help offset much of the fertilizer cost, and decrease the environmental footprint of the farm. There were a few factors that the farm considered: would the composting demand a lot more labor, would yields remain viable? As a family enterprise, there were risks in transitioning from a known and reliable yield from commercial fertilizers to a new and untested compost system.

Farm trial plan

With technical support from OFRF, Tiffany decided to get answers and compare two different on-farm compost recipes with her usual practice of applying Harmony, a granular fertilizer (5-4-3). Tiffany wanted to put her chickens to good use, so one compost recipe she wanted to try included chicken manure as the main nitrogen source for one of her compost formulas. Her second compost recipe in the trial used clover and fresh grass clippings as the main nitrogen source. Both recipes included wood chips as the primary carbon source. 

One of her best fall cash crops is cucumbers, so the trial was designed for Socrates cucumber, transplanted out from her greenhouse to be planted in a 12×24 hoophouse in mid-September. At the time of transplanting, Tiffany would apply the different treatments: Compost recipe 1, Compost recipe 2, or the commercial fertilizer, respectively.

In farm trials, it is key to keep things consistent, so Tiffany made sure to count each plant that was transplanted so that each block had the same number of cucumber plants. Once the cucumbers begin to set fruit, she will weigh the yield as well as count the number of cucumbers from each plot. She is hopeful that the results of this trial will help her work towards building her on farm fertility plans, and keep harvests bountiful. Stay tuned for updates on the farm trial outcomes and findings this fall!

“I had a friend that was retired from NRCS tell me about the program and encouraged me to apply.  I read many of the farm trials and what the program did to help organic farming and decided it was a wonderful opportunity.  I am always looking for a better, more sustainable way to farm and was so excited to get picked for this program.”  

– Tiffany Stanley, A Different Chick Farm

This story is part of a series profiling farmers who are taking part in OFRF’s Farmer-Led Trials (FLT) program. Farmers receive technical support from OFRF to address their challenges through structured on-farm trials. To learn more about OFRF Farmer-Led Trials Program, visit our website page at https://ofrf.org/research/farmer-led-research-trials/

To learn more about composting and farm fertility programs check out these resources:

To learn more about A Different Chick Farm, you can find them on Instagram and Facebook or visit their website: https://adifferentchickfarm.com/

By |2024-12-06T15:39:06+00:00October 10th, 2024|Farmer Stories, FLT Highlight, News|
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