Organic Trade Association Given Lead Role in USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program; Tom Chapman and Jeff Tkach Comment
WASHINGTON, DC - As the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) looks to strengthen the organic supply chain with its Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), the organization is tapping into vital industry expertise. It was recently announced that the Organic Trade Association (OTA) has been selected as a national partner for the program.
“OTA is honored to be named national partner for USDA in this important program,” said Tom Chapman, Chief Executive Officer of the association. “Supporting market development and access for transitioning and organic producers and handlers is vital for the long-term success of USDA’s Organic Transition Initiative. By leveraging our experience and in-depth knowledge of organic, industry network, and collaborative approach, we know we can contribute to the success of the USDA TOPP initiative and having Rodale as our core partner ensures even greater outcomes for the program.”
As the Lead Cooperator for this integral project, the organization will manage and oversee activities throughout the country that support market development for organic products, facilitate the matching of organic producers and suppliers, and educate handlers in effective ways of dealing with organic products.
Rodale Institute, a recognized leader in research and technical expertise on organic agriculture, will be the core partner to OTA, according to a press release.
“Consumer demand for organic products has been growing rapidly in the United States, but domestic production and handling capacity have not kept pace,” said Jeff Tkach, Chief Executive Officer of Rodale Institute. “Through this national partnership with the USDA and the Organic Trade Association, Rodale Institute, the global leader in organic agricultural research, education, and direct farmer support programs, will teach producers how to successfully adopt certified organic handling and processing practices. The Institute’s innovative organic consulting division will also provide on-the-ground training and market development assistance to producers across the nation. If one thing is clear, it’s that this critical and in-demand partnership will lead to better outcomes for both producers and consumers of organic agriculture in the United States.”
For more information on this pivotal collaboration—including the various activities that OTA, Rodale, and other partners will develop—click here.
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