Achieving Organic Dreams With FARRMS and OCIA by Your Side

In 2023, FARRMS partnered with the Organic Crop Improvement Association (OCIA Intl.) as part of the USDA’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). OCIA is the regional lead for the Plains region, which includes North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, and Oklahoma. As a result of this partnership, we have created numerous educational and financial resources. These are specifically designed to help producers who are looking to make the leap to organic certification.

Below is a list of resources that can help farmers navigate the organic certification process and connect them to resources: 

Direct Technical Assistance

• Whether you're just curious about what it takes to become Certified Organic or you've already started your journey, we offer personalized direct technical assistance. Our FARRMS staff members are ready to sit down with you, discuss your unique situation, and help identify specific challenges. Fill out this form to get in touch and start the conversation.

  
  

Webinar Recordings

• Want to learn from those who've been there? Our webinar recordings feature insights from experienced organic farmers and professionals. We cover a range of topics, from the history of organic agriculture in North Dakota to the steps involved in creating an Organic Systems Plan. Keep an eye out for more organic webinar sessions coming in the fall of 2025! All our current recordings are public and can be viewed here.

  
  

YouTube Videos

• A YouTube education series takes you into the fields with a North Dakota farmer as he shares tips and tricks for growing organically in our harsh climate. Check out these informative segments:

  • Part 1: Managing Weeds

  • Part 2: Hot Composting, No-till, & Seed Germination

  • Part 3: High Tunnel Season Extension

  • Part 4: Quick Tips for Seed Starting & Planting

  • Part 5: Pest Management

    
    

Resource Guide 

• Our comprehensive Resource Guide covers the essential basics of organic certification. It's designed to help you determine if organic certification is the right path for you, guide you through the initial steps of the certification process, and provide a wealth of helpful resources, including contact information for experienced organic farmers and links to useful websites.

  
  

OCIA TOPP Mentorship

• Another valuable resource we offer is the OCIA TOPP Mentorship Program. This program connects experienced organic operators with transitioning farmers, providing invaluable guidance throughout the certification process. Mentors and mentees work together to set and achieve specific goals, with ongoing training, guidance, and support to ensure a successful relationship. If you're interested in becoming a mentor or a mentee, you can apply here or watch this video to learn more.

  
  

Additional Resources

1. North Dakota Department of Agriculture Resources

• North Dakota Organic Education and Transition Cost Share Program: The Program reimburses crop and livestock farmers for 75 percent, up to $750, of certain costs associated with transitioning to USDA certified organic production. Farmers are also eligible for up to $250 of reimbursement for approved educational expenses. With a maximum annual reimbursement of $1,000 for up to three years. Applicants must live and farm in North Dakota and may not own or operate any already certified organic land. Cost Share Program is not available in 2025.

• Organic Certification Cost Share Program: The ND Dept. of Ag. administers the USDA Organic Cost Share Reimbursement Program. Organic producers (crops, wild crops, and/or livestock) and/or handlers are eligible for reimbursement of 75 percent of initial or renewal organic certification costs with a maximum of $750.00 per certification scope. Costs paid within the period of October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024 are eligible. Cost Share Program is not available in 2025.

  
  

2. NRCS Resources

• State USDA Contact List for New and Beginning Farmers 

• NRCS Organic Videos, Publications, and Fact Sheets

• A Guide to USDA Resources for Historically Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

• NRCS Organic Practice 823 Strategies and Best Practices Video

  • Producer Pre-Office Visit Checklist

    
    

3. Additional Resources

• USDA Certified Organic: Understanding the Basics – A great place to start for consumers and producers who want an introduction to organics.

• USDA Organic Integrity Database – A searchable database where farmers can find a specific certified organic farm or business, or search for an operation with specific characteristics.

• North Dakota Dept. of Ag Organic information – The ND Department of Agriculture has gathered many resources & information including a listing of certifiers that serve North Dakota farmers. 

• USDA National Organic Program – Information from the USDA about organics.

• Guide for Organic Crop Producers – An in-depth guide for crop producers who are certified organic or transitioning to organic certification.

• TOPP Map of Partners in each State

• TOPP Fact Sheet

  
  

Whether you are just starting to explore the idea of organic farming or you're already well into the transition, FARRMS and OCIA are here to help every step of the way. We believe in the power of community and shared knowledge to build a more sustainable future for agriculture. We encourage you to explore these resources and connect with us. 

Do you have questions about organic certification? Contact us at 701-877-1974 or info@farrms.org

This program is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).

Learn about TOPP: www.organictransition.org

USDA TOPP Mentor Application: https://bit.ly/topp_mentor

USDA TOPP Mentee/Technical Assistance Recipient Application: https://bit.ly/topp_mentee