2024 Southeast TOPP Partner Annual Meeting Celebrates Dynamic and Impactful Milestones 

In September, Southeast TOPP representatives from across the region came together for the second SE TOPP Partner Annual meeting in Gulfport, Mississippi. Over two days, partners shared impacts, successes and challenges over the past year, and participated in dynamic workshops on measuring impact and exploring the “why’s and why not’s” of organic certification. Additionally, in preparation for Year 3 activities, partners engaged in planning sessions focused on increasing organic acreage and providing sustained support for farmers during the transition process. A standout moment was the farm tour and farm-to-table lunch at Galloway Family Farm and Education Center, where attendees witnessed first-hand the dedication of farmers and the value of building strong local food systems. The farmer panel that followed offered diverse perspectives on the transition process and organic certification. Another highlight of the meeting was the keynote speech delivered by Dr. Jenny Tucker, Deputy Administrator of the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service National Organic Program. Dr. Tucker’s insights on the TOPP program’s national goals and its alignment with regional efforts inspired partners to continue the momentum into the coming year.  

The energy, camaraderie, and shared mission present throughout the meeting underscored the importance of our collective efforts in achieving the goals of the Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program. As the region moves into Year 3, the partnerships and plans forged in Gulfport promise to strengthen the organic movement and offer greater support for farmers on the path to certification.