Let's Go Organic
The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources.
We are six regions working together nationwide towards a common goal:
to grow the network of organic producers.
With TOPP, producers transitioning to organic will find support through the transition and certification process. Mentorship, workshops, webinars, field days, technical assistance, and other educational events will offer opportunities to learn about organic production, the certification process, market opportunities, and more.
Find your region below to learn more about mentorship, events, and resources.
Join Our Mentorship Program
The TOPP mentorship program builds connections between experienced organic producers and producers transitioning to organic, supports the transition process, and creates a stronger network of organic producers across the United States.
For Mentees
Transitioning producers gain support, guidance, and development through mentorship.
As a transitioning producer you will receive free mentorship from an experienced organic producer. Mentors and transitioning producers will work together to set goals for the mentorship year and will form a strong network of organic producers across the region.
For Mentors
Mentors play a crucial role in helping new organic producers succeed while growing the organic movement.
As a mentor, you will have the opportunity to guide and support producers who are transitioning to organic, providing them with valuable insights, practical advice, and industry best practices. Mentorship training, time, and travel are paid. All crop and livestock producers are welcome to apply!
Upcoming Events
Branched Oak Farm Tour (Nebraska Sustainable Ag Society)
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm (Central) | Raymond, NE
Join us for an enlightening and enjoyable evening that combines sustainable farming practices with a celestial experience! Our event begins with a tour of a silvopasture farm, where you’ll discover the benefits and methods of integrating trees and grazing livestock on the same land. These systems are meticulously managed for both forest products and forage, providing both short- and long-term income sources. Learn how silvopasture supports biodiversity, improves soil health, and increases overall farm productivity. There is no cost to attend this event.
Organic Farmer Track at the 17th Annual Kneading Conference (Maine Grain Alliance)
10:00 am - 3:00 pm (EST) | Skowhegan, Maine
This exciting event is a must for all bread enthusiasts. Whether you’re a professional baker, farmer or a home cook, this conference offers a unique opportunity to learn and connect with fellow dough lovers. Immerse yourself in a weekend of hands-on workshops, informative sessions, and lively discussions led by renowned experts in the grain and baking world. We are thrilled to move our event into the heart of downtown Skowhegan. Through collaborating with local businesses that have supported us for many years, attendees will get to experience what makes Skowhegan such a special place.
Workshops include:
Pseudograins with Will Bonsall, The Scatterseed Project
Heritage Grain Seed Restoration with Paul Pollaro, Maine Grain Alliance TOPP Project Manager
Sunrise Grain Walk with Richard Roberts, Director of Maine Grain Alliance Seed Restoration
Strategies and Opportunities for Growing Organic Grain with Meg Mitchell (MOFGA), Sara & Marcus Flewelling (Aurora Mills & Farm), and others.
Reintroducing Heritage & Landrace Grain Resources with Tristan Noyes & Paul Pollaro
If you currently grow grains organically or are interested in doing so, we would love to offer you free admission to the entire conference, so long as you plan to attend the above workshops. Visit our registration page and enter the code FarmScholar at checkout to secure your spot today!
IOA Field Day: Organic Field Equipment & Technology Demonstration (Iowa Organic Association (IOA))
9:00 am - 11:00 am (Central Daylight Time) | Seven W Farm, Paullina, IA
Jaron and Liz Wilson of Seven W Farm will share how they integrate technology on their multi-generational organic farm. Jaron will give an overview of the Ag Open GPS software that he uses along with a Guidance Hitch in his planting and cultivation. He will show how he uses precision ag tools to save money and influence results in the field! The Wilson family will also discuss how they work together as the each manage different aspects of the farm business.
Virtual Coffee Hour: Organic Grain Farming for Soil Health from SE Nebraska to NE Kansas (Rodale)
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm (CST) | Online
To help foster community building and provide technical assistance to farmers Rodale Institute Consulting Services will host monthly virtual “coffee hours” for 6-months. We believe that the frequency, open structure, and small-mid size of the group will be conducive to deep and meaningful conversations.
Alabama CRAFT: Sustainable Growing Methods for Row Crops & Navigating Climate Smart Ag Funding (Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network, Co Hosts - The Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe of Alabama, Georgia Organic Peanut Association (GOPA), Alabama Chapter of the Federation of Southern Cooperatives)
10:00 am - 12:00 pm (CDT) | 2950 County Road 377 64, Private Road 1312 Elba, AL 36323
Learn simple, concrete, and financially viable sustainable and Organic methods to integrate into your row cropping from farmer representatives from the Georgia Organic Peanut Association (GOPA) and the Alabama Chapter of the Federation of Southern Cooperatives. We’ll also talk about Climate Smart Agriculture Funding and how it can potentially support your production. Come visit with fellow farmers and trade tips!
Learn more and register here: https://asanonline.ourpowerbase.net/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=46
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