By Andi Anderson
A new USDA grant is providing much-needed support for farmers in Iowa and across the Midwest who are interested in transitioning to organic agriculture.
The funding comes through the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service’s National Organic Program and its Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).
Iowa State University has received $285,000 under the initiative, which will be directed by Kathleen Delate, professor of agronomy and horticulture and ISU extension horticulture specialist. Delate also leads the ISU Organic Ag Program.
The grant is one of 25 projects coordinated by the Midwest Organic Services Association (MOSA) in the Midwest region. States involved include Arkansas, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
The program aims to build partnerships with trusted organizations to expand training, outreach, and farmer support. A key feature is a mentorship program pairing experienced organic producers with farmers pursuing certification.
In Iowa, 10 mentorship pairs will be supported. Mentors must have at least three years of organic experience and will receive compensation for their time and knowledge.
Other TOPP components include workshops, field days, and business development courses; peer-group and community events; workforce development programs; and data collection to track progress and challenges.
Iowa’s organic sector already includes about 800 farms on 169,000 acres, according to 2021 census data, and demand for practical information on organic practices continues to rise.
Recent field days showcased high tunnel vegetable production, robotic weeders, and long-term crop rotation comparisons. Farmers like Shaffer Ridgeway of Southern Goods Farm are already benefiting. Ridgeway, who is in the process of certification, has been paired with mentor Drew Erickson from the Rodale Institute’s Marion center.
“The TOPP mentorship has been priceless,” Ridgeway said. “My work here is about feeding people, with a strong focus on soil health and the health of my customers.”
Farmers interested in mentorship or technical assistance can find more details on the ISU Organic Ag Program website. The 2025 Iowa Organic Conference, scheduled for November 16–17 in Iowa City, will feature sessions dedicated to TOPP participants.
Photo Credit:usda
Categories: Iowa, General