I had played around with the idea of organic certification for quite a few years. Did I want to go through all the work and hassle to become certified? Did I have time for all the extra paperwork obtaining and maintaining certification entails? Did I want an inspector coming on my farm each year, even unannounced? Was it worth the extra cost?
For a while I didn't think it was worth it, I was already doing things organically - not adding any chemical pesticides or herbicides, weeding by hand and not using glyphosate, using compost, and planting organic or non-gmo seeds. I didn't need a certification to prove how I was farming, turns out, yes I did! Organic certification entails so much more than not using chemicals and I have found out, it is important to a lot of people! People are actively searching for organically grown food which is grown by using methods that are helping to heal the land by attracting pollinators and native plants. I have had calls and emails from people asking if I will be selling organic produce; there is a need!
I am happy to say that I have had one full year under my belt working with Oregon Tilth and being a certified organic grower. My fields have just been approved for another year! I am thankful to have a place to sell my organic produce next summer. I had tried a couple years of operating a CSA, but due to seasonal changes and weather issues, it was extremely difficult and not efficient. Now produce will be available when it is ready and on a first come first served basis in my shop. The seasonal produce will be available in my shop as well as certified organic seedlings in the spring.
It is amazing how many native plants we have found in our meadow and gardens that never were there before; at least as long as I can remember. The sound of the bees is wonderful, they are surely happy here.
This land has been in my family for 5 generations. It is important for me to be a steward of the land and help heal it.
During the time we live in now and for the last decade or so, many people are very interested in where their food comes from, how is it grown, heirloom vs genetically modified, organic vs conventional. I am not here to tell anyone they are farming or gardening incorrectly, but to me organic certification proves to my customers that what I am doing is organic and sustainable, and that is great!
So, the hard work and endless record keeping I have to do to keep my certification is worth it because I know what I can grown in my herb and vegetables fields are what many people are searching for.
I am looking forward to selling certified organic produce in my shop this summer. The herbs that I grow and use in my natural health and beauty products are certified too.
"We do not inherit the land from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children." Chief Seattle
Congrats and best wishes. I applaud your dedication and perseverance.