Our Work

Growing Organic Agriculture, Local Food Systems & Healthy Communities Since 1987

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Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers (FOG) advances organic, regenerative, and sustainable agriculture.

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Through education, certification services, community partnerships, and farmer-focused programs, we strengthen farms, empower consumers, and help build a more resilient food future for all.

For nearly four decades, our work has supported farmers in transition, expanded access to organic food, and connected communities to healthier, more sustainable food systems

Areas of Impact

How We Support Farmers, Food Systems & Communities

Our work is grounded in several long‑standing areas of impact. These pillars remain constant, even as individual programs evolve over time.

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Farmer Support & Organic Transition

Helping farmers grow resilient, sustainable operations.

We equip producers with tools, training, and guidance to support their transition to organic and long‑term success. Our work includes:

  • One‑on‑one technical assistance
  • Transition planning and organic readiness
  • Farmer‑to‑farmer mentorship
  • Workshops, field trainings, and educational events
  • Access to resources through initiatives such as SE TOPP and Cost Share

Our goal is to ensure farmers have clear, accessible pathways to adopting organic practices and achieving certification.

Learn About Organic Transition
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Local Food Systems & Market Development

Building strong, connected, resilient local food networks.

FOG strengthens food systems by connecting farmers, markets, consumers, and community organizations through programs and partnerships including:

  • Local food network development
  • Farmers market support and training
  • Community food access initiatives
  • SNAP incentive programs
  • Regional mapping and resource directories

These efforts improve market opportunities for producers and increase access to healthy, locally produced foods.

Explore the Florida Local Food Network Map
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Consumer Education & Public Engagement

Supporting informed, empowered consumers across diverse communities.

Through storytelling, resources, and collaborative outreach, we help households understand the value of organic food and sustainable agriculture. Our work includes:

  • Fresh Take Podcast – conversations with growers, experts, and advocates
  • Organic Beet Newsletter – organic education, food tips, and program updates
  • Community education, workshops & resources (this is a new page on our website, please reference the content on that page to add to our new site)

We believe everyone deserves access to safe, nutritious, sustainably grown food—and the knowledge to make informed choices.

Subscribe to the Organic Beet
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Organic Certification & Integrity

Ensuring organic trust and transparency through QCS.

FOG’s certification arm—Quality Certification Services (QCS)—is a nationally recognized organic certifier providing:

  • Organic certification for farms and processors
  • International certification options
  • Support for operations of all sizes
  • Educational resources and compliance guidance

QCS upholds the highest standards of organic integrity to ensure consumers and producers can trust the organic label.

Visit QCS
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Program Spotlight

Initiatives That Help Grow a More Resilient Food Future

Across these impact areas, FOG develops and leads a variety of initiatives, including:

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  • Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program (SE TOPP) – mentorship, TA, transition support
  • Gaining New Ground – land access, new farmer support, resource development
  • Local Food Network Initiatives – community partners, regional mapping, food access
  • Farmers Market Support Initiatives – tools and training for markets and managers
  • Cost Share Program – financial support for organic certification
  • Fresh Take Podcast – storytelling and consumer education
  • SNAP Incentive Initiatives – improving access to fresh produceQCS upholds the highest standards of organic integrity to ensure consumers and producers can trust the organic label.

These programs evolve as needs shift, but all share one purpose: strengthening sustainable agriculture and local food systems.

 

Explore all Programs
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Interested in Becoming USDA Certified Organic?

Whether you're transitioning or starting your organic operation, our team is here to help. Learn the steps, requirements, and support available to guide you through the certification process.

Learn About Organic Certification
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