1 Is organic certification necessary
A farm can be certified according to a givenorganic standard. This happens when the farmer does what the standard requires and is confirmed by the certification body.
Why is it important
- To help the farmer find organic markets
- To inform consumers that the product is organic and the source is known
-To show that the farming activities are environmentally friendly
- To inform consumers that the product is organic and the source is known
- To show that workers are treated well and no child workers on the farm
2 Who can be certified as a Farmer
It is the farm , not the farmer, which is certified. This farm should be managed by the same farmer either in one or many places.
For example;
- A farmer with one field producing one or many products
- A farmer with many fields producing many products
Certification will cover
. All farming areas including fallow and grazing areas
. Materials used in farming (their quantities and sources)
. All activities done after harvesting like cleaning, packaging
. Stores for produce and inputs
. Tools and equipment used
3 How do i get certified
To get certified, a farmer may need the following steps
In the first year;
Step 1: Read the standard and other information obtained from the TOAM
Step 2: Make inquiries from the avilable certification bodies (CBs)
Contact the CBs and obtain relevant information on standards, application process, certification costs and procedures.
Step 3: Select the suitable CB.
Fill in and submit the application, negotiate the certification costs, procedures and fee payment. Sign the contract of inspection and certification with the CB.
Step 4: Prepare the farm records
Organise the farm records and maps in the inspection of the farm
Step 5: Inspection of the farm.
Agree with the CB when the inspector will come to check the farm activities and records.
Step 6: Discuss the Inspection report with the inspector.
Read the report carefully and check for any errors and misunderstandings
Step 7: Respond to all comments from the inspector.
Check and fulfill all conditions needed for your certification
Step 8: Certification decision.
The CB will finally inform you the results of the inspection and the certification decision
4. How do I maintain my certification
Your farm will be inspected every year by the CB. Make sue that all the certification conditions from the CB are fulfilled
Therefore, you should;
- Make the changes asked for, when the standards are changed
- Attend organic farming training to improve your knowledge
- Keep all records up-to-date
- Protect the organic farm from non-organic materials
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