Organic Seed Alliance is conducting a survey to better understand U.S. certified organic farmers’ and seed growers’ perspectives and ideas on sound and sensible ways to improve organic seed usage. While the goal remains working towards 100% organic seed usage in the future, this may not be possible in certain crops and markets. Data from this survey will help inform our work with the National Organic Program (NOP) and National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) on continuous improvement of organic seed usage. All organic farmers and seed growers are encouraged to take the quick survey using the button below.
Background on Organic Seed Usage Regulation
The USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP) requires the use of organic seed unless the seeds they need, including equivalent varieties, aren’t commercially available. The purpose of the current organic seed exemption is to provide a transition time for the seed industry to catch up to demand and to allow organic growers to find suitable varieties to transition to, with the goal of eventually achieving 100 percent organic seed sourcing. The allowance for non-organic seed is important for growers who lack access to appropriate organic seed for their operations. While it is no one’s intention to force organic growers to use organic seed that may not be optimal for their operations, continuous improvement in organic seed sourcing is essential to incentivizing growth in the organic seed supply and strengthening organic integrity.
Listening Session at the Organic Seed Growers Conference
In conjunction with the survey, OSA is hosting an in-person listening session on organic seed usage at the Organic Seed Growers Conference, which will be held February 26 – March 1, 2025, at Oregon State University in Corvallis. The event is a chance for seed stewards and advocates from across the U.S. and beyond to gather in celebration of the growing seed movement. Centered around the theme “Weaving Visions of Organic Seed Communities,” the event will offer pre-conference intensives, keynote speakers, panel discussions, farm tours, lightning talks, a seed swap, synergy spaces, and more. Learn more and register using the button below.
