Let's Go Organic
The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources.
We are six regions working together nationwide towards a common goal:
to grow the network of organic producers.
With TOPP, producers transitioning to organic will find support through the transition and certification process. Mentorship, workshops, webinars, field days, technical assistance, and other educational events will offer opportunities to learn about organic production, the certification process, market opportunities, and more.
Find your region below to learn more about mentorship, events, and resources.
Join Our Mentorship Program
The TOPP mentorship program builds connections between experienced organic producers and producers transitioning to organic, supports the transition process, and creates a stronger network of organic producers across the United States.
For Mentees
Transitioning producers gain support, guidance, and development through mentorship.
As a transitioning producer you will receive free mentorship from an experienced organic producer. Mentors and transitioning producers will work together to set goals for the mentorship year and will form a strong network of organic producers across the region.
For Mentors
Mentors play a crucial role in helping new organic producers succeed while growing the organic movement.
As a mentor, you will have the opportunity to guide and support producers who are transitioning to organic, providing them with valuable insights, practical advice, and industry best practices. Mentorship training, time, and travel are paid. All crop and livestock producers are welcome to apply!
Upcoming Events
NOFA New Jersey – Weekly Technical Assistance Office Hour
9:00 am - 10:00 am (EST) | Online
Every Wednesday at 9AM, join NOFA NJ via Zoom and receive focused support with your farm’s needs. Whatever you are working on, NOFA NJ’s Technical Assistance Coordinator will help and connect you to relevant experts in the community.
Rotational Grazing, Draft Power, and Medicinal Herbs
9:00 am - 12:00 pm (EST) | Northland Sheep Farm: Marathon, NY
Maryrose and Donn operate a certified organic sheep operation were they use rotational grazing practices. They also graze a few cows and horses, sometime with their sheep flock. They are also a mixed power farm utilizing draft horse power and tractors. This workshop will talk about rotational grazing, fencing options, sheep breeding and the decision to change production from cheese making to meat production. NRCS will be joining us to talk about funding opportunities available for grazing infrastructure. In addition, we will have discussions on shared farmland and growing culinary and medicinal herbs.
Demystifying Organic Certification: Record Keeping
4:00 pm - 5:30 pm (EST) | Online
Are you having trouble tracking your on farm inputs or crop plans? Maybe you’re interested, but just can’t find the time to certify organic?
NOFA/Mass is excited to feature Antonio Acosta from Agriculture & Land-Based Training Association (ALBA) and Coronel Produce organic farm to share their tips and techniques behind keeping your books straight for organic certification and inspection. Plus, they’ll talk about how recordkeeping for organic certification has other, unrelated benefits as well!
We understand there are many barriers and complications behind certification – including paperwork. Come with your questions and curiosities for this special webinar.
Organic Office Hours
1:00 pm (PST) | Online
Get your questions answered at weekly Organic Office Hours!
Curious about what it takes to transition your operation to organic? Do you have questions about the certification process? Or are you a newly certified producer with questions on how to stay in compliance? Join us at weekly virtual office hours with organic expert Sarah Townsend of Oregon Tilth. Learn about Organic Certification, Organic System Plans (OSPs), how to get certified, and more. All questions and experience levels welcome!
Join us through Teams video meeting or simply call in.
Microsoft Teams Meeting: Join on your computer, mobile app or room device
https://oregontilth.link/organicofficehours
Or call in (audio only)
Phone Conference ID: 445 762 348#
Merchant’s Garden Tour
Tucson, AZ
Farm tour at Merchant’s Garden (a mentor site) for the AZ TOPP hydroponic and aquaponic mentee cohort.
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