eNEWS
December 2009 > Free crop advisors available for Florida growers interested in transitioning acreage to organic
Florida Organic Growers is operating an Organic Transition project that provides conventional growers with free crop advisors if they choose to transition a portion of their operation to organic production practices. The experienced organic production crop advisors are knowledgable in organic production, regulations and certification, and are available to answer questions by transitioning growers. In addition, growers can attend a free farm tour in spring 2009 that will provide first-hand experience with organic soil management, cropping, and pest and disease control approaches.
U.S. sales of organic products grew 17.1 percent to $24.6 billion by the end of 2008, according to the Organic Trade Association's 2009 Organic Industry Survey, and have shown double digit growth for more than a decade. Growers interested in taking advantage of the growth in the organic industry
can find out more information about the Organic Transition project by visiting www.foginfo.org/epa, calling 352.377.6345 or emailing fog@foginfo.org.
RESOURCES
Operation Transition: Organic Transition and Pesticide Reduction Project