Let’s Grow Organic Agriculture
The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program, supports farms and producers in transitioning from conventional to organic with mentorship and organic farming resources.
THE GUIDE TO ORGANIC HANDLING & PROCESSING
Practical Education for Organic Handlers, available now at OrganicHandlers.org
Six nationwide regions working together towards a common goal: to grow the network of organic farmers producers.
With TOPP, farmers and producers interested in or transitioning from conventional to organic will find support through the transition and organic certification process.
Mentorship, organic workshops and webinars, field days, technical assistance, and other educational events offer opportunities to learn about organic farming principles, the benefits of organic production, the organic certification process, market opportunities, and more.
Find your region below to learn more about organic mentorship programs, events, and resources.
Join Our Organic Mentorship Program
The TOPP mentorship program connects you with experienced organic producers to help guide you during your transition to organic from conventional methods.
This proven program supports the transition process and creates a stronger network of organic producers across the United States.
For Mentees - Producers Transitioning To Organic
Transitioning producers gain support, guidance, and development through mentorship.
As a part of the program, conventional farms and producers changing to organic will receive free mentorship from an experienced organic producer. Mentors and transitioning producers will work together to set goals for the mentorship year, learn more about organic resources, opportunities and the certification process, and more.
For Mentors - Help Increase Organic Practices In The U.S.
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 farms and producers who are transitioning to organic, providing them with valuable insights, practical advice, and organic industry best practices.
All organic crop and organic livestock producers are welcome to apply! Mentorship training, time, and travel are paid.
Upcoming Events
Farmshare Austin
Cedar Creek, TX
Farmer Starter is a five month entry level immersive farmer training program on a working, certified organic, diversified vegetable farm designed to provide aspiring farmers with the essential skills and training needed to manage a sustainable farming business.
UC Organic Agriculture Institute
12:00 pm - 1:15 pm (PT) | Online
Thinking about transitioning your livestock operation to organic? Join us for a three-week webinar series designed to help you transition to organic.
Each week features practical guidance from UC specialists, farmer speakers, and technical assistance providers—covering everything from certification basics and recordkeeping to market access, and inspection prep.
Spanish interpretation will be available at every session.
SESSION TOPICS
• Nov 5: Livestock producers’ perspectives on transitioning to organic
• Nov 12: Certification requirements, organic system plans, and choosing a certifier
• Nov 19: To go organic? organic livestock economics, marketing, and processing considerations
University of Arizona Extension
9:00 am - 11:00 am (MT) | Phoenix, AZ
University of Arizona Extension
8:00 am - 4:00 pm (MT) | Phoenix, AZ
Florida Organic Growers
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (ET) | Online
Join Florida Organic Growers for an informative panel discussion exploring the growing potential for organic rice production across the Southeastern United States. Featuring Dr. Ramkrishnan Balasubramanian, Dr. Frederick Payton, and Collie Graddick, this webinar will highlight:
– Emerging opportunities for growers interested in organic rice,
– Current market and production trends, and
– Key considerations for transitioning to organic production and obtaining certification.
Panelists will also discuss lessons learned from on-farm research and outreach efforts, including insights from the System of Rice Integration (SRI) Project, which is examining innovative approaches to improving productivity, resource efficiency, and sustainability in rice production systems.
Whether you are currently growing rice, considering diversification into rice production, or interested in organic certification, this session will provide practical information and opportunities for discussion with experts working in the field.
Questions? Reach out to SETOPP@foginfo.org
News
FY24 In-Person TOPP Events Heatmap
View TOPP’s 2024 in-person event locations and the educational programs that supported organic and transitioning farmers nationwide.
This Story Map was created by:
Find Out More
Questions? Contact Us
Connect with a TOPP partner near you, and get the help and resources you need in your transition to organic.
Impact Report: Two Years of Progress
A story of collective action, meaningful partnerships, and measurable change shown through our Transition to Organic Partnership Program.
