Organic Transition Program

Organic Transition specialists assist farmers who are interested in transitioning to USDA-certified organic production. Organic Specialists are available for one-on-one consultations, providing a personal level of service and technical assistance on-site, at the farmer’s convenience and can assist in the following areas:

Developing farm transition plans
Filling out the Organic System Plan
Navigating regulations around organic certification
Recordkeeping, maps, buffers and other specific requirements
Practical details about organic crop, livestock, grain, and dairy production
Fundamental principles of organic agriculture
Marketing opportunities

Do you have a few questions BEFORE you get started? Send an email to [email protected] and we'll chat through it with you. Please note, this is a FREE, first-come first-served service and we encourage all farms to have a current OAK membership. Watch this short webinar to learn about organics in Kentucky, considerations for organic transition and how to prepare a successful application.

Ready to get started with a Trainer and prepare for Organic Certification?

Click HERE to complete the Application

Looking for recordkeeping templates, farming tools for crop planning or regional inputs?

Click HERE for OAK's Resources

Excited to dig into the details?

First, apply to work with an Organic Transition Specialist above. Next, check out the resources below. An Organic Trainer will assist you through the process of understanding the National Organic Program Regulations, how to apply for organic certification with a certifier, developing maps, establishing recordkeeping templates and more. OAK also offers an Organic Farmer Mentorship Program for those interested in applying for organic certification.

The National Organic Program (NOP) regulations:

A short overview of the crop standards (this is a good place to start if you are new to the regulations).
An overview of the organic livestock standards.
The complete NOP regulations.

Material Review Lists: Organic farmers have to know what products and materials are allowed or prohibited in organic production. Talk with our certifier about what lists they follow. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture recognizes these material review lists and contact OAK if you have questions:

Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI)
Washington State Department of Agriculture
Pennsylvania Certified Organic (if working with KDA, list available upon request)
California Department of Food and Agriculture Registered Organic Input Materials

Choosing a Certifier: There are many certifiers operating in the state and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture is one of them. Learn more about KDA's Organic Program here. Other certifiers to consider in the area are OEFFA, Oregon TILTH, OneCert, MOSA, PCO and others.

Federal Cost Share for Organic Certification: In May 2023 USDA reinstated a federal cost share covering 75% up to $750 for the cost of certification. You just have to check the box on the application, or file with FSA (depends on which certifier you choose).

NRCS Organic Fact Sheet

This program is made possible with support from: USDA Transition to Organic Program Partnership and Patagonia.