American farmers transitioning to organic will receive enhanced support thanks to a $75 million investment from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Part of USDA’s Organic Transition Initiative, the funding will help NRCS provide farmers with the advice and knowledge they need to change their production methods.
NRCS says it will invest $70 million in a new organic management standard to offer training, education, and essential financial support to producers as they shift to organic. NRCS will also invest a further $5 million in partnerships with six regional organic specialists and one organic research specialist to expand its organic know-how and enhance its ability to provide the right support.
“Producers transitioning to organic can count on NRCS for assistance through the process,” said NRCS Chief Terry Cosby. “By strengthening our technical proficiency and providing technical and financial assistance through new tools and practices, we can better support producers through the challenges of organic transition.”