Q&A

DEAR NEW FARM:

What does it take to get a tract of land (100-200 acres) certified as a organic farm plot? I have a 225-acre tract with creeks in north-central Georgia, only 20 miles from the University of Georgia, that was clearcut 10 years ago and nothing but natural growth has taken place since (briars, sweet gum, hardwoods, scattered pines). I wonder what it would take to get it designated as an organic farm?

Thanks,
Del Mills
Georgia

DEAR DEL:

You have a great resource in Georgia Organic (www.georgiaorganics.org). They can put you in touch with others farmers as well as certifiers in your area. You can also consult the New Farm Organic Certifier Directory (www.newfarm.org/ocdbt) as well as the USDA Organic Program website (www.ams.usda.gov/NOP), where you will find a full text of the national Organic Rule.

NF

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