The Organic Science and Research Investment Act: What It Is and How It Benefits All Farmers
Developed with OFRF’s leadership, the bipartisan Organic Science and Research Investment (OSRI) Act—introduced by Reps. Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) and Eugene Vindman (D-VA-07)—expands USDA funding for organic research that benefits all farmers and strengthens the future of American agriculture.
Addressing Challenges Farmers Face in the Great Lakes
Organic farmers face unique challenges in every part of the country. In this article, we look at challenges faced by organic farmers in the Great Lakes, and dive into resources available on the Organic Research Hub that could help farmers address them.
OFRF Announces Applications Opening for 2026 Farmer-Led Trials Program
The Organic Farming Research Foundation 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.
The Government Shutdown: What it Means for Organic Farming and Research
In the midst of a government shutdown, with no clear end in sight, organic farming and research is taking a hit. A complete freeze in all federal work directly affects the nation’s programming at USDA, especially for organic producers and the agricultural research they depend on. This month’s Policy Corner breaks it down.
Two Years of Farmer-Led Trials
As we wrap up the second cohort of Farmer-Led Trials, and prepare to open applications for the third season, OFRF’s Research & Education Program Manager, Mary Hathaway reflects on the lessons, challenges, and highlights of supporting farmers in conducting their own research trials.
The Story Behind HEAL: Collective Power for Food System Change
HEAL Food Alliance is a multi-sector, multi-racial coalition dedicated to transforming food and farm systems through policy, education, and grassroots support. OFRF joined HEAL for a “Lunch and Learn” event recently, aimed at building stronger connections between our organization and others working in the food and agriculture sectors. We were inspired by the powerful work that HEAL is doing. Here are our takeaways.
School Lunches Might Look Different This Year: Federal Funding Freezes Pinch School Food Programs
For a research project, OFRF’s Policy & Communications intern, Marina Santos, dove into understanding the impact of federal funding freezes on school lunch programs, farmers growing the food, and the communities they feed.
A Trio of Comments: OFRF Chimes in on USDA Actions
At OFRF, we know that strong, transparent, and farmer-informed federal agencies are essential for the success of all U.S. agriculture, but especially organic agriculture. This month, we acted on that knowledge when we submitted three different comments on USDA actions.
Farmer-Led Trials Program Spotlight: The Woven Trifecta
The Woven Trifecta, located in Western Michigan, focuses on diversified vegetables for a CSA, local farmers market, as well as farm to school sales throughout the school year. Farmer Samantha Otto, is participating in OFRF's Farmer-Led Trial Program to experiment with using anaerobic fermentation as a soil amendment to improve crop vigor and yield.
OFRF Raises Concerns on USDA Reorganization Plan
OFRF submitted comments opposing USDA’s reorganization plan, warning it would undermine research, conservation, and farmer access to vital programs.
