General News
Keeping it Real: How OFRF groundtruths our policy priorities, and why that matters
In today’s political environment, defined by complexity, shifting political winds, and consistently competing interests, clarity and consistency matter more than ever. That’s why it is all the more important that OFRF stays grounded by always adhering to one simple principle: our work must be rooted in the real needs of the organic farming and research community.
Farmer-Led Trials Program Spotlight: Farmacea
In the heart of Munith, Michigan, Farmacea is undertaking an exciting experiment to help enhance their farm systems and design. Farmers Mike Lucas and Rollin Baker are participating in OFRF's Farmer-Led Trials (FLT) Program to answer the question "does a living clover mulch produce higher strawberry yields than a plastic mulch?".
Bringing Organic to the Hill: How OFRF is Making Waves in D.C.
Behind the scenes in D.C., OFRF is working to ensure organic farmers and science-backed solutions remain central to ag policy. Here's how we're building momentum—and why it matters now more than ever.
Lessons from Organic Seed Usage Farmer Listening Session
OFRF's sixth Seeds of Success Networking Session, where farmers share challenges and successes in face-to-face virtual spaces, over 40 organic seed farmers share insights on organic seed usage and direction for policies for positive next steps for the industry.
Spring Storms in Policymaking: How Organic Research is Affected by Reconciliation
Reconciliation is a fast-track budget process that allows Congress to adjust spending, revenue, and debt limits. For advocates of organic farming and publicly-funded agricultural research, reconciliation can have profound implications on the future of important programs. Learn what’s happening right now, and what’s at stake for organic agriculture.
OFRF-Funded Organic Strawberry Researcher Receives Prestigious Sustainability Leadership Award
Dr. Joji Muramoto, supported by OFRF since 1997, has received UC’s top sustainability award for his leadership in organic strawberry research and grower collaboration.
OFRF Urges NOSB to Keep Driving Bold Farmer-Centered Organic Research
OFRF submitted comments and delivered oral testimony at the National Organic Standards Board's spring meeting urging continued investment in bold, farmer-centered organic research priorities. Our recommendations address persistent gaps and propose new focus areas to help the organic sector thrive.
Organic Research in the Balance: What’s Happening in Wisconsin
From breeding new varieties of organic carrots to overcoming hurdles to achieving efficacy in organic meat curing, Wisconsin is undoubtedly a leader in organic production and research. This article, originally published in Marbleseed's Organic Broadcaster in spring 2025, highlights Wisconsin's organic industries and research and the contributions being made to the broader organic community.
Our 2024 Annual Report is Here
We’re celebrating the release of our Annual Report! Featuring three stories from farmers, researchers, and organic advocates, this report highlights the impactful work we’ve accomplished in 2024.
Why the Trade War Increases the Need for More Organic Farming Research
OFRF’s new Policy Fellow addresses the elephant in the room–tariffs. How will new tariffs impact organic agriculture and farmers' livelihoods? What does research have to do with it? And what can we do about it? Read more.
OFRF Announces 2025 Farmer-Led Research Trials Cohort
OFRF announces the 2025 Farmer-Led Research Trials Cohort. Nine organic farmers across the country have been selected to receive technical support for next round of innovative on-farm research trials.
Real Talk on EQIP: One Organic Farm’s Journey Through Federal Funding
(Versión en español a continuación) Three Feathers Farm is a small, BIPOC-led organic farm located on four-and-a-half acres in Morgan Hill, California, a mere twenty minutes south of San Jose. Their story offers a transparent look at what it’s really like to work with NRCS: the benefits, the obstacles, and the lessons they’ve learned.
Fetterman and Schiff Reintroduce the Organic Science and Research Investment (OSRI) Act
Senators Fetterman and Schiff have reintroduced the Organic Science and Research Investment (OSRI) Act to strengthen U.S. organic farming. Backed by OFRF and over 80 organizations, the bill would invest in the research and tools farmers need to meet growing demand and build resilience.
OFRF Launches Organic Research Hub to Support Farmers Nationwide
OFRF launches a one-of-a-kind platform offering curated, science-based organic farming tools and resources to help farmers find trusted, practical solutions to on-farm challenges.
Lessons from OFRF’s Farmer-Researcher Collaboration Panel
This recap provides insights from organic farmers and researchers with decades of experience collaborating for on-farm research. Part of OFRF's Seeds of Success Networking Sessions, this virtual event highlights several strategies for building trust between farmers and researchers and provides examples of what works well and what to avoid.
What’s Happening with Organic Farming Research in Pennsylvania
Originally published in Pennsylvania Certified Organic's "Organic Matters" publication, this article summarizes the state of organics in one of the highest-ranking states for certified production. Read highlights from organic research projects in Pennsylvania and learn how continued federal funding for organic research is essential for the industries in Pennsylvania and across the country.
How the Growth of Organic Farming and Indigenous Food Sovereignty Support Each Other
Explore the deep connection between Indigenous cultures and land stewardship, and how the Indigenous food sovereignty movement seeks to reclaim traditional ecological knowledge, promote sustainable agriculture, and challenge industrial food systems.
Action Alert! Tell Congress: Don’t Fail Our Farmers
The USDA funding freeze is leaving farmers in limbo. Learn how you can take action right now to help protect farmers from the damaging effects of the federal funding freeze and government layoffs.
OFRF Introduces Members of New Organic Stewardship Council
OFRF is proud to introduce the seven inaugural members of the Organic Stewardship Council, a new advisory group that ensures farmers remain at the heart of our research, education, and advocacy efforts. Meet the passionate leaders in food and agriculture who will help guide our organization.
The Consequences of Mass Firings Across the USDA
A massive wave of federal firings has terminated employment for critical agricultural departments. Learn more about the dire impacts of these cuts, the short and long term consequences on agronomic and economic research, why it matters, and how you can take action at this critical time.
