Farms

Operations who plan to produce organic crops must obtain organic certification under the “crops” scope. Likewise, operations who plan to produce organic livestock products must obtain organic certification the livestock scope. In order to obtain certification as a producer of organic crops and/or livestock, PCO must verify your organic products are produced and handled according to the National Organic Program standards.

Crop Production

Organic crops (including pasture, hay, row crops, produce, transplants, sprouts, microgreens, cut flowers, etc.) must be harvested from land that has been free of substances prohibited in organic production for at least 36 months. Thorough records of seed and input purchases, input applications, planting, harvest, storage, sales, etc. are often an essential part of any certified crop production operation.

Livestock

Dairy animals, slaughter-stock, fiber animals, and poultry may be certified organic under the “livestock” scope. Poultry must be managed organically from the second day of life. All other non-dairy animals must be managed organically from the last third of gestation to be eligible for organic certification. Dairy animals may transition to organic certification by being managed organically for 12 months. All livestock producers must have a sufficient animal identification system and maintain thorough records of purchased animals and feed, outdoor access, health and medical treatments, production and sales, etc.

Resources for Farms

Guide for Organic Crop Producers

Guide For Organic Livestock Producers

The USDA Organic Integrity Database can be used to search for a specific certified organic farm or business, or search for an operation with specific characteristics. If you plan to source organic products or ingredients from specific suppliers, this website can be used to verify the current organic certification status of each supplier.

Ready to Apply?

For more applications or information about becoming a certified processor or handler, complete the PCO Application Form.