A Call for Action on Congressional Investments in Organic Research
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