Photo: Organic alfalfa farmer Randy Mosel was eager to share about his own experiences and best practices at the Nebraska Weed Control Association conference in Norfolk, NE. 

Nebraska Farmers Learn About TOPP and Weed Control Methods from Longtime Organic Farmer 

Randy Mosel serves on the Organic Crop Improvement Association’s (OCIA) Board of Directors and is a longtime organic alfalfa farmer. Eager to share his own experience as an organic producer, Randy recently presented at the Nebraska Weed Control Association conference in Norfolk, NE, where he provided farmers with alternative methods to traditional weed control, such as those used by organic producers, and discussed the challenges and benefits of organic farming. 

In addition to learning about successful on-farm practices for organic operations, more than 70 attendees were introduced to the Transition to Organic Partnership (TOPP) program, which supports farmers transitioning to organic production by providing mentorship, technical assistance, and workforce development and networking opportunities. Several farmers showed interest in the program, asking questions about different ways TOPP could potentially support their goals. In Nebraska, TOPP has already provided technical assistance training to more than 25 organic professionals and transitioning farmers, and more than 400 Nebraska farmers have attended TOPP events to learn more about the program, and how they can participate. 

Photo: Attendees of the Oregon Wine Symposium learned about the benefits of organic certification to local vineyards and wineries. 

TOPP Regional Lead Highlights Organic Practices and Benefits of Certification at Oregon Wine Symposium  

Oregon Tilth Certified Organic, the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) regional lead for the Northwest, recently attended the Oregon Wine Symposium in Portland, Oregon, one of the Northwest’s premier conferences for winegrowers, vineyard owners, winemakers, and others in the wine industry.  

Oregon Tilth shared the organic certification support programs available through TOPP and answered attendee questions regarding the organic certification process. The event boasted a strong emphasis on organic and regenerative vineyards, with one of Oregon Tilth’s winegrowing TOPP mentors speaking on a panel about the benefits of adopting healthier soil stewardship and implementing strategies to go organic.   

Oregon Tilth has found that many vineyards are already following organic practices in the Northwest, meaning that organic certification is an easy next step, and one that brings many benefits to vineyards and wineries. The winegrowing mentors available through TOPP are eager to support more vineyards in becoming certified organic and share their expertise in sustainable and organic viticulture.

Rodale staff talking to Field Day attendees about organic field trial systems. Photo courtesy of Rodale Institute.  

Rodale Field Day Highlights TOPP Opportunities 

Pennsylvania’s Governor Josh Shapiro and Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding showed their support for organic agriculture as they welcomed more than 400 people attending Rodale institute’s Annual Organic Field Day in Kutztown, PA. The field day invited farmers, gardeners, extension agents and legislators to learn more about organic practices and how to support farmers transitioning to organic production. Experienced organic producers also provided one-on-one technical assistance and educational sessions to those interested in transitioning to organic.  

Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO), regional lead for the Mid-Atlantic/Northeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), discussed opportunities available through TOPP and shared how new organic farmers can gain experience and build relationships with existing organic farmers, receive technical assistance, and join networks of organic stakeholders working to grow the organic industry. The event also served as a kickoff for Mid-Atlantic/Northeast TOPP with Rodale serving as a technical assistance partner. As of spring 2024, four transitioning farmers in Pennsylvania are receiving technical assistance from Rodale’s consulting team.  

About the Transition to Organic Partnership Program 

The USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) is investing up to $100 million over five years in cooperative agreements with non-profit organizations who are partnering with others to provide technical assistance and wrap-around support for transitioning and existing organic farmers. USDA is building partnership networks in six regions across the United States with trusted organizations serving direct farmer training, education, and outreach activities. 

For more information on upcoming TOPP events, mentorship opportunities, and farmer resources in your region, visit OrganicTransition.org. Visit USDA's TOPP Success Stories page to read about the exciting work being done in communities throughout the United States.