What are the requirements for obtaining a USDA organic certification?

In Virginia, farmers who wish to obtain a USDA Organic certification must meet a number of criteria established by the National Organic Program. Before obtaining certification, farmers must apply to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and obtain an organic certificate. This certificate is required for all farms that want to market products as being USDA-certified organic. The requirements for certification include developing and implementing an organic farming plan. This plan must detail the farming practices that the farmer will use to maintain a sound soil, water and environment management system. Furthermore, farmers must avoid the use of synthetic and prohibited substances, including genetic engineering and antibiotics, in their farming operations. In addition to having an organic plan, farmers must also meet recordkeeping requirements, ensuring that all records related to their operation are kept up-to-date and accurate. Finally, farmers must successfully pass an inspection of their farm and production facility in order to obtain certification. The USDA Organic certification is an important designation for farms, as it provides consumers with peace of mind that the products produced by these farms are grown and produced in accordance with established organic standards. As such, farmers in Virginia must adhere to the standards set by the National Organic Program in order to obtain and maintain certification.

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