This course prepares agricultural advisors to support organic farmers in finding and selecting the certifier that is the best fit for their operation.


What you will learn


This course provides an overview of what you need to know to successfully advise organic farmers on finding and selecting a certifier.

  • Clarity on the unique role certifiers play—working for the National Organic Program while being paid by you

  • Confidence to evaluate and compare different certifiers before making your choice

  • Practical strategies for assessing whether a certifier will be a good fit for your operation

  • Knowledge of key questions to ask potential certifiers during your search

  • Understanding of what a healthy farmer-certifier relationship looks like in practice

  • Familiarity with certifiers commonly used by organic growers in the Southwest
VIDEOS




QUIZ



CERTIFICATE



Featured Farmers and Advisors

Throughout this course, you will hear from working organic farmers and subject matter experts who will share their personal experience and knowledge about each of the topics discussed in the lessons.

Bob Whitney

TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE




Funder Acknowledgement


This work is supported through the United Stated Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS National Organic Program (NOP).

FAQs


How long will it take me to complete the lessons?

We estimate that each lesson will take approximately 15 minutes to complete. This includes reading the online written materials, viewing the 15 minute instructional video, and taking the quiz. We estimate that total time investment for the course requires 2 hours to complete.


When will my access expire?

Never!


Do I need any qualifications to start the course?

We do not have any formal prerequisites to take this course. We recommend that you have an understanding of general agriculture principles and experience working in agriculture. This course assumes prior knowledge of field crop production practices and offers an extension of that knowledge into organic-specific practices and requirements.


Will this course enable me to find employment as an organic advisor?

This course will help set you apart from other advisors and consultants. It will provide you with the foundational knowledge you need to consult organic field crop farmers.


What do graduates do when they have completed this training?

Past OATS trainees put their knowledge to work in many different ways. Some are employees of input companies, some are independent consultants, and yet others are agricultural educators. Our trainees put their new knowledge to work by expanding their client base to include transitioning and certified organic producers.


Will I obtain a certificate or official course credits?

After completing the online materials, achieving a passing score on the course final quiz, you are eligible to receive the Certificate of Completion. Certificates are non-accredited.


What if I have more questions?

Contact training@organicagronomy.org to learn more.