Organic Resources

If you are interested in learning more about organic agriculture please utilize the links below. This information is provided as a service. Most resources listed are not published by the Colorado Department of Agriculture.

NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM (NOP)
NOP Homepage: FAQ’s on certification, links to all parts of the NOP website and lists for certified operations and certifying agents by state.

NOP Rules and Regulations: The complete list of NOP Standards for Crop, Process Handling and Livestock operations.

NOP Handbook:  Provides those who own, manage or certify organic operations with guidance and instructions that can assist them in complying with USDA-NOP regulations.

USDA Organic Resource Guide 2012:  A complete guide that includes an overview of each section within the USDA concerning organic including Organic Research, Data, Marketing, Food Safety and Organic Points of Contact

Guide for Organic Crop Producers

Guide for Organic Livestock Producers

Guide For Organic Processors

Guide to Organic Certification

MARKETING OF ORGANIC PRODUCT
The CDA Markets Division:  Markets Division has a variety of programs including Colorado MarketMaker, Colorado Proud and information on Specialty Crop grants to help organic operations.

USDA - Agricultural Marketing Service:  Administers programs that facilitate the efficient, fair marketing of U.S. agricultural products, including food, fiber and specialty crops.

Colorado State University – Agricultural and Resource Economics:  Fact Sheets from CSU-Extension concerning marketing of agricultural products.

USDA - Economic Research Service:  Organic Market overview, organic trade and policy, current information on Farm Bill Act and Provisions

ORGANIC PRODUCTION
Colorado State University Extension:  A complete guide with fact sheets, publications and webinars designed to educate dairy, fruit and vegetable operations with all aspects of organic agriculture.

ATTRA (National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service):  Organic Farming publications and information on pest control, organic certification, livestock, inputs and marketing

GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES
CDA – Markets Division, GAP and GHP:  Good Agricultural Practices and Good Handling Practices, the CDA is an in-state partner with the USDA for the USDA Fresh Produce Audit Verification Program

FDA: Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruit and Vegetables

USDA Grading, Certification and Verification:  USDA information on GAP and GHP

FOOD LABELING
FDA General Food Labeling Requirements:  A Food Labeling Industry Guide