OneCert is part of a coalition of highly respected organic certifiers who worked together to create a position statement concerning the fundamental principle that organic agriculture is–and should continue to be–soil-based agriculture. This position has since been endorsed by a number of organizations who still stand behind the idea that organic terrestrial crop production is […]
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Types of Handlers: What needs to be certified?
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Read More… from Different Classes of Handling Operations & Their Certification Obligations
This Earth Day, we’re honored to celebrate OneCert’s 22nd anniversary of USDA accreditation—a milestone rooted in passion, perseverance, and dedication to organic farming. On this auspicious day in 2003, our founder Sam Welsch guided OneCert through the new USDA-accreditation process. OneCert’s quality system was developed with the invaluable advice of Beth Hayden, who emphasized focusing […]
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OneCert is thrilled to announce a significant transition in leadership. Effective April 1, 2025, Karlin and Jeremy Warner assume ownership of OneCert, with Karlin stepping into the role of CEO. This marks the beginning of an exciting new era of growth and innovation for the company, building on the strong legacy established by founder Sam […]
Read More… from OneCert Ushers in a Dynamic New Chapter with Karlin Warner as CEO
Christopher Purdy began a one-year rotation as Deputy Administrator for the National Organic Program (NOP) on February 3. This rotation coincides with Dr. Jennifer Tucker, the current NOP Deputy Administrator, transitioning to the same role within the Specialty Crops Program. Purdy’s extensive public and private sector leadership experience includes his current position as Deputy Administrator […]
The future of organic cost share funding is uncertain. Congress’s recent Farm Bill extension failed to fund this critical program, which helps organic operations cover certification costs. Coupled with a federal funding freeze, this puts cost share and other vital USDA programs in jeopardy. This means organic farmers and businesses could face significantly higher expenses […]
Read More… from Act Now: Plan for Cost Share Changes in 2025
WARNING! On Thursday, February 6, 20205, OneCert received an email from the USDA warning that certified operations are receiving phishing emails from sources pretending to be the USDA. The USDA has also posted a warning banner on the Organic Integrity Database (OID) website. Per the NOP, these scam emails have been sent using the following: […]
The OMRI list (www.omri.org) is a useful tool for certified operations to determine the suitability of inputs for use in organic production and handling. It’s always reassuring to know that a product you’d like to use on your farm or in your processing operation is OMRI listed before you go to your certifier for approval. […]
UPDATE February 6, 2025: Today the USDA issued a delay of effective date. The new rule effective date is delayed until March 21, 2025, and operations must comply by March 22, 2027. Read the update as published in the Federal Register here. On December 23, 2024, the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) announced the publication […]
Read More… from USDA Publishes New Regulations for Organic Pet Food and Mushrooms
As we transition into the fall season, the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) deadline is rapidly approaching. If your head is spinning trying to figure out what you need to do to receive Organic Cost Share funding for 2024, look no further! Read on to discover the information you need to complete a submission […]
Read More… from Ready to Get Reimbursed? Tips for 2024 Cost Share Success!
The process can be overwhelming. The free Planned Approach to Organic Transition program can help by providing you with one-on-one support from a personalized team of advisors, including organic farmers and certification experts. LEARN MORE HERE […]
Read More… from ARE YOU NEW TO ORGANIC FARMING OR THINKING ABOUT TRANSITIONING?
Earlier this year, the USDA rolled out the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) regulations, bringing a wave of significant changes to organic import requirements. Whether you’re an importer, exporter, or just curious about organic products, here’s a quick rundown of the key points you need to know. End of the Grace Period The unofficial USDA grace […]
Read More… from Navigating the New USDA Organic Import Rules: What You Need to Know