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The federal government shutdown is going on its fourth week with no clear resolution in sight. According to estimates from S&P Global, the shutdown has already cost the U.S. economy $3.6 billion, and If it continues two more weeks, the economic damage could surpass $5.7 billion.

The shutdown is causing issues for farmers across the nation. Local Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices have been closed, affecting farmers with agency loans. Food safety inspectors are working while missing paychecks, and important Ag data isn’t being collected. What does the shutdown mean specifically for the Organic Sector?

Many organic programs are left without moorings in this uncharted territory. Continue reading “Organic Programs Go Adrift During Government Shutdown” →

Environment, Organic Policy and Regulations, Social Implications in Agriculture, What is Organic

Happy New Year: Congress Lays a Golden Egg While USDA Doles out a Lump of Coal

January 2, 2019 Melody Meyer

The end of the year has come and gone – a new year is upon us. I spent the holidays as a serial hostess, whipping up fine organic fare for friends and family. Yet the feasting and frolicking did not distract me from the news that affects the things I hold dear – Food and Agriculture.

While we were all preparing for the holidays, we at once received great tidings from Congress alongside a grimy gift from our dear Administration.

This then is the story of The Golden Egg and Lump of Coal that ended 2018. Continue reading “Happy New Year: Congress Lays a Golden Egg While USDA Doles out a Lump of Coal” →

Social Implications in Agriculture, What is Organic

Your Last Chance to Advocate for Strong GMO Labeling Rules

June 6, 2018June 6, 2018 Melody Meyer

The USDA finally released their long-awaited draft rule that will implement a Genetically Engineered or GMO food disclosure law. The draft leaves a lot of things unanswered and is quite troubling in many regards. Continue reading “Your Last Chance to Advocate for Strong GMO Labeling Rules” →

Organic Policy and Regulations, What is Organic

Organic Week in DC: Why It’s More Important Now Than Ever to Be Involved

May 7, 2018 Melody Meyer

If you’ve ever walked the halls of Congress with talking points in hand, you know the thrill of democracy in action. Having the opportunity to advocate for funding or policy change with your elected Congressperson is the most important way for you to participate in the legislative process. With Farm Bill discussions underway and mid-term elections around the corner this year, it’s critical for organic proponents to show up and speak up for organic food and agriculture. Continue reading “Organic Week in DC: Why It’s More Important Now Than Ever to Be Involved” →

Organic Policy and Regulations, Social Implications in Agriculture, What is Organic

Do We Need Another Organic Label?

March 26, 2018 Melody Meyer

Last fall the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) made the decision not to prohibit hydroponic and container growing methods in organic production. This decision left some members of the organic community infuriated and galvanized. They vowed to dig in and create a label that meant something more than the USDA seal. After a few short months, the Real Organic Project (ROP) was formed by farmers and advocates who say that they are reclaiming the original meaning of organic. Continue reading “Do We Need Another Organic Label?” →