Organic, Sustainable, Urban and Alternative Farming Systems: MSU, Michigan, USDA Resources
This is a general guide to finding information on agricultural and gardening systems that are considered organic, sustainable, or alternative, such as "green", no-till and agroecology.
In September 1998, Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) Director Dan Wyant created the Michigan Organic Advisory Committee (Committee). The Committee was charged with developing a strategic plan; serving as a framework for advancing a system of production, processing and marketing products of organic agriculture in Michigan. This plan includes background information, a position statement, two key recommendations and related action items. It was designed to introduce several concepts, ideas, and recommendations to MDA and the organic industry and initiate dialogue with MDA and the organic industry about these concepts and ideas
Equipping farmers and consumers with knowledge about organic production practices and suggesting methods to successfully transition conventional production to organic.
The Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance (MOFFA) was organized in 1992 as a non-profit organization with the mission of promoting organic agriculture and the development and support of food systems that revitalize and sustain local communities. MOFFA was one of the first organizations in Michigan and the nation to actively promote these principles.
The New Ag Network (NAN) was established in 2004 when three universities—Michigan State University, Purdue University and the University of Illinois—joined resources to bring together farmers, researchers and educators to address sustainable and organic agriculture issues. Representatives from each of the three collaborating universities provide the Network’s leadership. The Network provides a website, bi-monthly conference calls, newsletters and articles distributed throughout the communities. Using the NAN to produce fact sheets and training for educators was an effective tool.
Many USDA agencies serve the growing organic sector. Whether you're already certified organic, considering transitioning all or part of your operation, or working with organic producers, we have resources for you. This portal connects you with programs, services, and educational materials that can help your organic farm or business.
NOP is a federal regulatory program that develops and enforces consistent national standards for organically produced agricultural products sold in the United States.
The USDA has published many document series in its history. Most have been digitized and are accessible freely online through the NALDC and NAL's Internet Archive site (see the links below).
Series titles include:
Contains nearly 2500 reports and datasets. These materials cover U.S. and international agriculture and related topics. Available titles include both current and historical data.
