Looking for some real world, “I’ve been through it,” practical advice on becoming certified organic? Looking for some very specific 1:1 technical support? The TOPP Mentorship program is waiting for you!

The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources across the United States. There are six regional groups, and since April 2023, Tilth Alliance has been part of the Northwest Regional Center for Organic Transition, a coalition of partners in the upper left, led by Oregon Tilth.

We’re in good company with other Washington-based organizations including Viva Farms, WSDA Organics Program, The Intertribal Agriculture Council, PCC Community Markets, Oxbow Farm, Rodale Insititute, Elderberry Wisdom Farm, Organic Seed Alliance and Northwest Agriculture Business Center. As a group, we provide technical assistance and support for transitioning and existing organic producers throughout the Northwest United States in different ways. Some of Tilth Alliance’s TOPP funded work includes our Farm Walks and podcasts, organic focused workshops and office hours at our annual conference, and the Sustainable Ag Farmer Forum, an online community of practice forum for farmer peer-to-peer learning and resources.

So, what does this mean for you? Resources and expert support at no-cost.

• Talk with an organic certification specialist for one-on-one assistance. Get help with the certification process, developing your application and organic system plan, understanding regulations, ensuring you are in compliance while transitioning, and having your certification questions answered.
• Attend educational events, including workshops, webinars, field days and more all centered on organic production and certification. Check the calendar for all partner events!
• Get help with navigating organic certification and production resources, including assistance programs for certification fees, national conservation programs for implementing organic practices, and locating publications, research, and online resources.
• The TOPP mentorship Program builds connections. It connects experienced organic producers with producers transitioning to organic (mentees). Mentors will support the transitioning producer through the transition and certification process. Northwest TOPP will provide guidance and support for the mentorship, and mentors and mentees will meet regularly on their own time either virtually or in person. Mentors and transitioning producers will work together to set goals for the mentorship year and build a communication system tailored for their individual needs and preferences. Neither the mentor or transitioning producer are expected to work on each other’s operations.

The Mentorship Program has been successful across the country, with a number of NW Mentors ready to connect with farmers looking to get certified. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to our farm team today!