Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Applications are now open for a new cohort of farmer-researchers to receive technical support in conducting innovative on-farm research trials across the country

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Oct. 15, 2025 — The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) is excited to announce that applications are open for the next cohort of organic farmers who will be leading on-farm research trials with OFRF technical assistance in 2026.

OFRF’s Farmer-Led Trials (FLT) Program provides technical assistance and a small amount of funding to a select cohort of organic and transitioning-to-organic growers each year. Built in the spirit of curiosity and collaboration, the FLT program provides support to farmers so that they can try new practices, inputs, varieties, or animal breeds that can improve profitability and environmental sustainability. Applications are open October 15th through December 3rd, 2025. Selected participants will be announced in early 2026.

“By partnering with OFRF, we get to create a project that will help us determine the very best cover crops to solve some of our soil health issues. We get expert advice and feedback through all stages of the project, from planning, implementing, data collection, and interpreting results,” Tim Colby, farmer at Colby Farms in Papillion, Nebraska, and former participant in OFRF’s FLT Program.

Organic farming takes a great deal of dedication, financial investment, and continuous trial and error to adapt to an array of challenges, including pests, diseases, soil management, and climate change. To address the specific challenges that certified organic and transitioning-to-organic growers face, it is essential that farmers are at the center of efforts to identify problems and trial solutions. The FLT program supports farmers in developing a viable trial plan, provides support and accountability in data collection, and then helps farmers compile and assess results at the end of the trial. This equips farmers to not only implement the findings into their own farm practices but also to share the experience and knowledge gained with other producers.

“There is no limit to the interesting questions and thoughtful considerations that arise from organic farmers across the country. Our work at OFRF is to help bring the scope of the trial to an achievable level, grounded in the scientific method. With the results of each trial, farmers can make a small, accurate statement about what took place on their farm. Each statement is like a brick, adding one piece at a time to build the foundation of our understanding,” Mary Hathaway, OFRF Research & Education Program Manager.

To learn more or apply for OFRF’s Farmer-Led Trials Program, please visit our program page for updates and to read testimonials from previous cohorts. Additionally, we encourage curious farmers to consider attending the FLT Virtual Forum on Oct 21st, where three FLT farmers will share results of their trials, and to check out OFRF’s free guidebook, Farmers’ Guide to Conducting On-Farm Research, for guidance on structuring your farm experiments so the results are useful, reliable, and repeatable.

###

About Organic Farming Research Foundation
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: www.ofrf.org.

Media Contact:
Ashley Dulaney, Communications Director, OFRF
ashley@ofrf.orf, ‪(518) 310-6771‬‬
P.O. Box 440, Santa Cruz, CA 95061

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Farmer-Led From the Start and for the Future

SANTA CRUZ, Calif.,  March 4, 2025 — The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) has selected the seven inaugural members of a new Organic Stewardship Council (OSC). Composed of farmers from different regions, agricultural backgrounds, and diverse farming communities, as well as representatives from farmer associations, these stewards bring together diverse voices to shape OFRF’s work and elevate the priorities of organic and transitioning farmers nationwide. The formation of this advisory council strengthens OFRF’s long-standing commitment to taking its lead from farmers.

“By formalizing this advisory body, we are creating an enduring structure that empowers farmers to guide and shape our work at every level. We are thrilled to bring together this council of experienced voices who understand the challenges and opportunities in organic farming,” said OFRF Executive Director Brise Tencer.

Following a competitive nomination and review process, and approval from OFRF’s Board of Directors, OFRF is pleased to introduce the new OSC members:

Albert Straus, Straus Family Creamery (California)
Albert is the founder and executive chair of Straus Family Creamery, the first 100% certified organic creamery in the United States. He founded the Creamery in 1994, while his farm, the Straus Dairy Farm, became the first certified organic dairy west of the Mississippi River. He brings decades of leadership experience in sustainable organic farming practices.

Anna Jones-Crabtree, Vilicus Farms (Montana)
Anna and her husband Doug own and manage Vilicus Farms, a first-generation, organic, 12,500-acre dryland crop farm in Northern Hill County, Montana, growing a diverse array of organic heirloom and specialty grain, pulse, oilseed, and broadleaf crops under five- and seven-year rotations. Anna holds a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering with a minor in Sustainable Systems from Georgia Institute of Technology.

Brooke Gentile, Organic Association of Kentucky (Kentucky)
Brooke joined the Organic Association of Kentucky (OAK) in 2017 as the executive director and manages the KY Farm Share Coalition. Born and raised in Kentucky, she has worked with sustainable agriculture projects in New York City, Northern California, Indiana, and Kentucky. Brooke cares deeply about building a regional food system that supports our farmers, is regenerative for our lands, and is healthy and accessible for consumers.

John McKeon, Taylor Farms (California)
John is the Director of Organic Integrity and Compliance at Taylor Farms Retail, overseeing organic compliance and regenerative organic practices. He has worked at Taylor Farms and Earthbound Farm for 15 years in organic field and facility food safety, international organic supply chain compliance, and organic agricultural operations. John also spent 10 years at CCOF, from an intern to certification director and then inspector. He studied horticulture, sustainable agriculture, and environmental studies at Cabrillo College and the University of California Santa Cruz.

Jordan Settlage, Settlage & Settlage Farms (Ohio)
Jordan is a dairy farmer with Organic Valley Cooperative, based in St. Marys, Ohio. Farming alongside his father, he manages 500 acres of certified organic land and cares for a herd of 300 cows. Though he didn’t grow up on a dairy farm, Jordan has been involved in dairy since childhood and became certified organic in 2016. With a strong emphasis on grazing, he is passionate about regenerative agriculture and is dedicated to improving the overall agricultural system.

Leonard Diggs, Pie Ranch (California)
The Director of Operations and Farming Education at Pie Ranch in Central California, Leonard has managed sustainable and organic farms in northern California for over 30 years, including a 365-acre college farm with annual and perennial crops, a winery, livestock, and a mixed species forest. He has also instructed a wide range of agricultural classes and served on numerous agricultural boards and committees in an effort to share his experiences with current and future generations of gardeners and farmers.

Meg Moynihan, Derrydale Farm (Minnesota)
Meg is a certified organic dairy farmer in Le Sueur County, Minnesota, where she and her husband milk about 60 cows and direct market beef from Derrydale Farm. Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Nashville, Tennessee, Meg earned her B.A. from Brown University and an M.S. in Agronomy from the University of Minnesota. Her experience includes leading the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Organic Program, directing a statewide sustainable agriculture program in Michigan, working as an educator and evaluator, participating in the National Association of State Organic Programs, and serving on the board of directors for the Organic Field School in Farmington, Minnesota. Meg also formerly served as president of OFRF’s Board of Directors.

The Council will offer invaluable feedback and recommendations to OFRF’s Board and staff across a range of areas, including:

• Shaping OFRF’s programs by offering insight into educational resources, research priorities, and policy advocacy to ensure they align with the needs of organic and transitioning farmers.
• Voicing farmer perspectives by elevating on-the-ground realities and challenges farmers face to guide OFRF’s strategic direction.
• Evaluating the impact and providing feedback on the relevance and effectiveness of OFRF programs.
• Addressing emerging agricultural issues, including the National Organic Research Agenda (NORA), feedback on OFRF’s new Organic Research Hub, and Farm Bill priorities.

With this Council, OFRF continues to lead with the voices of organic farmers and create innovative pathways to advance the adoption of organic farming systems that prioritize climate resilience, soil health, and sustainability.

For more information about OFRF and its initiatives, visit www.ofrf.org.

##

About the Organic Farming Research Foundation​

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: www.ofrf.org. 

Contact:
Ashley Dulaney, Communications Director, OFRF
ashley@ofrf.org 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Carrie-Anne Palmeri of Nature’s Path Organic Foods and Bryan Wood of Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative join OFRF’s Board of Directors.

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Jan. 13, 2025 – The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) is proud to announce the addition of two esteemed professionals to its Board of Directors: Carrie-Anne Palmeri, Organic Program Manager at Nature’s Path Organic Foods, and Bryan Wood, Director of Farm Resources at Organic Valley’s CROPP Cooperative. These two highly respected leaders bring valuable expertise to help guide OFRF’s mission to foster the improvement and widespread adoption of organic farming systems.

Bryan Wood

Carrie-Anne Palmeri

Carrie-Anne Palmeri serves as Organic Program Manager to Nature’s Path Organic Foods, North America’s largest independent organic breakfast food company whose pursuit has been to “leave the Earth better than we found it” throughout its upwards of 50-year legacy as a pioneer & steward to the organic community. With the personal mission of advancing organic integrity from seed to fork and championing equitable access to the organic opportunity across borders, Palmeri builds on nearly two decades of extensive experience across the industry to lead the Nature’s Path Sustainable Supply Chain Program as well as its Organic Policy Advocacy, Regulatory Affairs, and Strategic Partnerships.

“It is an honor to join the Organic Farming Research Foundation Board to support the critical work they’re doing to equip the organic sector for success,” said Palmeri. “OFRF’s powerful farmer-driven research; commitment to meaningful and equitable access to organic education and technical outreach; coupled with targeted organic-first policy advocacy is key to the health of our collective food future.” 

Bryan Wood, a seasoned advocate for organic farmers, brings over a decade of experience from Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative, where he develops programs and services that strengthen farmer support and enhance financial stability. Through his hands-on leadership, Wood has advanced initiatives such as farm financial analysis and strategic pay price tools, ensuring organic farmers receive fair compensation for their work. 

“Joining OFRF’s board is an opportunity to further amplify the voices of organic farmers and build critical bridges between growers and the broader industry,” said Wood. “I’m excited to support OFRF’s work advancing research and policies that empower farmers to succeed.”

Palmeri and Wood join a distinguished group of board members committed to OFRF’s farmer-first mission. Their combined expertise with major organic brands will enhance OFRF’s capacity to connect the needs of organic farmers with the wider organic industry. This alignment is crucial as OFRF advances its strategic plan for 2024-2029, which prioritizes farmer-focused research, education, and advocacy for organic systems.

These appointments come at a pivotal time for OFRF, which recently launched its Organic Stewardship Council (OSC)—a new initiative to complement the board’s efforts by assembling a farmer-led group dedicated to advancing organic systems and research nationwide. The OSC, alongside the expertise of Palmeri and Wood, underscores OFRF’s commitment to fostering collaboration that uplifts farmers while driving sustainable change across the organic sector.

“The organic sector thrives on collaboration,” said April Jones Thatcher, OFRF Board President, and Farmer/Founder of April Joy Farm. “With Carrie-Anne and Bryan’s extensive backgrounds and their dedication to organic farming, we’re better positioned than ever to bridge the needs of organic farmers with the broader industry and continue driving impactful change.”

As OFRF continues to champion farmer-driven research and equitable access to organic education, these new board members will play a pivotal role in steering the organization toward a more sustainable and resilient future for organic agriculture.

For more information about OFRF, its mission, and the Organic Stewardship Council, please visit www.ofrf.org.

###

About Organic Farming Research Foundation
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: www.ofrf.org.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Dec. 5, 2024 — The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) is proud to announce the creation of the Organic Stewardship Council, a new advisory group that underscores OFRF’s unwavering commitment to taking its lead from farmers. For 35 years, OFRF has worked to advance organic farming systems by listening to and amplifying the voices of organic and transitioning to organic farmers. The Organic Stewardship Council builds on this legacy, ensuring that farmers remain central to its research, education, and advocacy efforts.

“Farmers have always been at the heart of our work, and this council represents another step forward in keeping their perspectives front and center,” shared Brise Tencer, Executive Director of OFRF. “By formalizing this advisory body, we are creating an enduring structure that empowers farmers to guide and shape our work at every level. We are thrilled to bring together this council of experienced voices who understand the challenges and opportunities in organic farming.”

The Organic Stewardship Council will consist of farmers from different regions, agricultural backgrounds, and diverse farming communities, as well as representatives from farmer associations and certification bodies. A Board-appointed liaison will also serve on the Council to maintain strong ties with OFRF’s governance. Council members will be compensated for their time, either directly or through the organization they represent, in recognition of their critical role in shaping OFRF’s work.

The inaugural members of the Council will be announced in early 2025 following a competitive nomination and review process and approval from OFRF’s Board of Directors. These stewards will bring their diverse voices together to shape OFRF’s work and elevate the priorities of organic and transitioning farmers nationwide.

The Council will offer invaluable feedback and recommendations to OFRF’s Board and staff across a range of areas, including:

• Shaping OFRF’s programs by offering insight into educational resources, research priorities, and policy advocacy to ensure they align with the needs of organic and transitioning farmers.
• Voicing farmer perspectives by elevating on-the-ground realities and challenges farmers face to guide OFRF’s strategic direction.
• Evaluating the impact and providing feedback on the relevance and effectiveness of OFRF programs.
• Addressing emerging agricultural issues, including the National Organic Research Agenda (NORA), feedback on OFRF’s new Organic Research Hub, and Farm Bill priorities.

The creation of the Council reinforces OFRF’s foundational belief that the voices of organic and transitioning farmers are vital to shaping the future of agriculture. This approach has driven OFRF’s work from the start, from groundbreaking research to educational resources and policy efforts that address the critical challenges farmers face. “The Organic Stewardship Council will deepen our connection to the farming community and strengthen our ability to respond to their evolving needs,” Tencer said.

With this Council, OFRF continues to lead with the voices of organic farmers and create innovative pathways to advance the adoption of organic farming systems that prioritize climate resilience, soil health, and sustainability.

For more information about OFRF and its initiatives, visit www.ofrf.org.

###

About Organic Farming Research Foundation
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: www.ofrf.org.

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

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:

• Dr. Bill Wintermantel, Research Leader, USDA-ARS
• Jo Ann Baumgartner, Executive Director, Wild Farm Alliance
• Jennifer Clarke, Executive Director, California Leafy Greens Research Program
• Phil Foster, local small vegetable farmer/research collaborator at Pinnacle Organically Grown Produce
• Roy Fuentes, local strawberry farmer/research collaborator at Fuentes Berry Farms
• Christopher Valadez, President/CEO, Grower-Shipper Association of Central California

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.

###

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: https://www.ofrf.org/. 

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OFRF leads coalition of 90 partners advocating for increased investment in organic research to promote a sustainable and thriving agricultural sector.

WASHINGTON, June 26, 2024 — The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF), joined by a coalition of 90 farms, businesses, organizations, and academic institutions, is urging Congress to significantly increase funding for organic agriculture research in the upcoming Farm Bill.

A letter has been sent to key House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders, emphasizing organic research’s critical role in promoting a sustainable, resilient, and economically thriving agricultural sector.

“Organic agriculture offers a multitude of benefits, from improved soil health and reduced environmental impact to stronger rural economies and increased consumer demand,” said OFRF Executive Director Brise Tencer. “However, current research funding levels continue to fail to reflect the sector’s potential and growth trajectory.”

The letter emphasizes the need for increased investment in several key areas, including:

• An annual increase of $10 million for the Organic Research and Extension Initiative (OREI).
• Congressional authorization of the Researching the Transition to Organic Program at $10 million a year, increasing to $20 million in the third year of the Farm Bill.
• Increased funding for the Organic Markets and Data Initiative, along with a report on the economic impact of organic farming on communities and ecosystems.
• The creation of an Organic Research Coordinator position within the Office of the Chief Scientist at the USDA.
• Inclusion of climate change and the facilitation of Traditional Ecological Knowledge subject to Free and Prior Informed Consent from the tribal communities that possess this knowledge as legislative priorities for OREI.

“Investing in organic research is an investment in the future of American agriculture,” Tencer continued. “Providing our farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed can ensure a more sustainable and prosperous food system for generations to come.”

The full letter signed by OFRF and its partners can be read on the OFRF site here.

To help secure a future for organic agriculture, urge your representatives to support increased funding for organic research in the Farm Bill. We are working with the National Organic Coalition to ensure your voice is heard by providing an easy-to-use tool to send a personalized message to your representatives today. You can access the free tool here.

###

About Organic Farming Research Foundation

About OFRF: The Organic Farming Research Foundation 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: https://www.ofrf.org/. 

Media Contact:
Ashley Dulaney, Communications Director, OFRF
ashley@ofrf.orf, ‪(518) 565-0156‬
P.O. Box 440, Santa Cruz, CA 95061

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OFRF has been awarded a USDA NRCS cooperative agreement to cultivate conservation excellence and empower organic producers nationwide. The collaborative initiative strengthens NRCS capabilities and enhances support for organic farmers through innovative training, resources, and community engagement.

(May 16, 2024) The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) is pleased to announce its five-year cooperative agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) to enhance organic agriculture businesses’ access to vital conservation programs.

OFRF will provide expertise in organic research and conservation practices, supporting NRCS in building institutional knowledge of the conservation considerations of organic management at NRCS offices and with regional partners. Additionally, it will increase awareness among organic producers of the technical and financial assistance available through USDA to meet holistic resource management goals. 

“Ensuring federal conservation programs work for and are utilized by organic farmers is an essential way to expand and enhance regenerative organic practices on the ground,” stated OFRF Executive Director Brise Tencer.  

OFRF will work in partnership with Oregon Tilth and other regional partners, representing a combined $5 million investment by NRCS to bolster organic expertise and expand resources for transitioning farmers. 

This cooperative agreement will establish a new NRCS Liaison role at OFRF, who will serve as a critical resource and communicator for the project. The liaison will review NRCS materials, develop educational resources for organic producers, and present at national events.

Additionally, throughout this initiative, OFRF will:

• Review and improve NRCS resources on organic farming practices and soil health management, and share the latest research on organic agricultural practices.
• Equip NRCS with a suite of training materials and educational resources that build capacity within the agency and address the priorities and needs of BIPOC farmers.
• Ensure NRCS organic resources and conservation standards reflect the latest research findings.
• Engage with farmers, Organic Coordinators, and Certifiers nationwide to increase knowledge of and access to NRCS organic programs and resources.

“This partnership is going to allow OFRF to continue our work of ensuring that NRCS conservation programs recognize the conservation benefits of organic agricultural management while also increasing our efforts to ensure that organic producers are aware of and utilize the significant supports NRCS has to offer,” shared OFRF Senior Policy and Programs Manager Gordon Merrick, who will be acting as lead on this project.

OFRF is uniquely poised to provide training, technical information, and educational resources, including guidance and organic farmer stories, that will improve the capacity of the NRCS staff to assist organic producers in implementing conservation practices.

“We are thrilled to be partnering again with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to further this goal,” Tencer stated.

###

About Organic Farming Research Foundation

About OFRF: The Organic Farming Research Foundation 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: https://www.ofrf.org/. 

Media Contact:
Ashley Dulaney, Communications Director, OFRF
ashley@ofrf.orf, ‪(518) 565-0156‬
P.O. Box 440, Santa Cruz, CA 95061