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.
Advancing Organic Agriculture: Dr. Walter Goldstein on Nitrogen-Fixing Corn with Congressman Steil
Dr. Walter Goldstein’s research is proving that you can breed organic corn varieties with similar yields to conventional corn that are competitive against weeds without the need to use synthetic fertilizers or herbicides. This work has huge implications on the future of corn production, climate resilience, and food security, and Dr. Goldstein is committed to sharing his story with the policymakers who need to know.
Organic Farmers Withstand Climate Change with Living Soils and Regional Seed Breeding
Over 80 certified organic farmers collaborate on the Organic Microbiome Project, a participatory research project led by Cornell University. By analyzing shifts in soil life and plant defenses where farmers are utilizing different farming practices, insights about resiliency to the stresses caused by extreme weather may be emerging.
Farm Bill, Appropriations, and the Clock Ticking Toward September 30
This month’s Gordon’s Policy Corner comes from Vermont, where OFRF joined the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition’s Summer Meeting. From Farm Bill and appropriations deadlines to shifts in how Congress and the Administration work together, we break down what’s at stake for farmers, researchers, and advocates. Now is the time to connect with your representatives and USDA officials to ensure your voice is heard.
Fields of Possibility: Tribal Food Sovereignty and Organic Agriculture
The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative’s mission is to enhance the health and wellness of tribal communities by advancing healthy food systems, diversified economic development, and cultural food traditions. In a recent conversation with OFRF, we explored the history of Federal Indian Policy, its lasting impacts on food sovereignty, and the intersections with organic agriculture.
Farmer-Led Trials Program Spotlight: Parker Farms
Parker Farms, located in Warren, Ohio, is a small farm with a big heart, serving their community fresh, locally grown produce and promoting sustainable, urban agriculture. Farmer Markisha Parker, is in the second year of transitioning the farm to certified organic, and is participating in OFRF's Farmer-Led Trial Program to experiment with a variety of mulches to help manage moisture on her organic tomatoes.
