Organic Transition Trainer Program

Organic Transition Trainers assist farmers who are interested in transitioning to USDA-certified organic production. Trainers are organic specialists and 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

 

Excited to dig into the details?

First, apply to work with an Organic Transition Trainer above! Then check out these 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. 

The National Organic Program (NOP) regulations:

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Material Review Lists: Organic farmers have to know what products and materials are allowed or prohibited in organic production. KDA recognizes these material review lists and contact OAK if you have questions:

 



      
 
This program is made possible with support from: Snowy Owl, Patagonia, Specialty Crop Block Grant Program and USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program.