Organic Systems Training for Southern Technical Service Providers and Extension Specialists

Commodities

Practices

Organic growers need Technical Service Providers (TSP) and Extension specialists capable of providing tailored support and helping them respond to various unique challenges. A recent study indicated that 74% of organic farmers in the South are concerned about the need for more knowledgeable specialists offering technical assistance for organic operations (Snyder et al., 2022). Organic producers have indicated the need for specialized assistance in areas such as reducing tillage, improving soil health, crop nutrient management, climate mitigation, weed, pest, and disease management, reducing costs, improving yields, and enhancing overall farm viability, as well as programming available to organic producers, including NRCS EQIP, CPS 823, and Organic Certification Cost Share Program (Snyder et al., 2022).  

This project aims to address this gap by developing an Organic Systems Training, including a suite of free educational resources and training opportunities geared toward enhancing the capacity of Southern region TSP and Extension specialists with respect to organic farming needs. The team will incorporate multiple formats for delivering training materials, including printable digital factsheets, webinars, participatory learning circles, and on-farm field day opportunities. OFRF will lead this project collaboratively with Florida Organic Growers (FOG) and will receive additional support from Dr. Danielle Treadwell (University of Florida, Extension), Mark Kopecky (NRCS), and two mentor farmers with extensive experience managing organic systems and leveraging federal programs that can help identify structural barriers and offer practical insights, Dr. Eva Worden and Mary Phipps.

The goal of this project is to train service providers within Extension, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and other agencies in the Southern region to enhance their capacity to meet the technical assistance needs of organic producers. The organic farming sector is rapidly growing, yet many producers, particularly those from underserved communities, face significant challenges in accessing the knowledge and resources necessary for successful organic production. This means that for service providers to give helpful recommendations, they need to be knowledgeable not only of specific technical practices but also of the organic regulations. A recent survey conducted by OFRF identified the top technical assistance needs of organic farmers in the South as 1. weed, insect pest, and disease management; 2. soil conservation and health; and 3. soil fertility and crop nutrients (Snyder et al. 2022).

Soil health, fertility, and weed management are critical components of organic farming, encompassing practices such as reducing tillage and implementing cover crops. Understanding the breadth and depth of organic support programs is vital for farmers to navigate available resources effectively. Therefore, this training will ensure that service providers possess a solid understanding of the unique resources and funding opportunities available to organic farmers in the region, particularly those that cater to historically underserved communities.

The project has three core objectives:

1. Increase Institutional Knowledge: Develop train-the-trainer resources for TSPs and cooperative Extension specialists focused on organic practices and programs. By equipping these professionals with comprehensive knowledge, we aim to create a ripple effect that enhances the overall capacity of the agricultural support network. This will be particularly beneficial for underserved communities, where access to knowledgeable service providers is often limited.
2. Foster Understanding of Organic Systems: Coordinate the dissemination of educational resources and organize on-farm field days for TSPs to learn about organic systems in real-world settings. These field days will provide hands-on experiences, allowing service providers to observe and engage with organic farming practices directly. By fostering a deeper understanding of organic systems, we aim to empower service providers to offer tailored advice that meets the specific needs of organic farmers, particularly those from underserved communities.
3. Enhance Technical Capacity: Evaluate additional support needs of specialists that can enable them to assist organic farmers more effectively. This evaluation will involve gathering feedback from service providers and farmers to identify gaps in knowledge and resources and seek insights to inform effective, culturally competent communication channels that reach and resonate with organic farmers across the region. By understanding the specific challenges faced by underserved communities, we can adapt our training to address these needs more effectively.

The project team will develop the Organic Systems Training, which will include four factsheets, four webinars, and four on-farm field days hosted in Florida. The training will focus on resource conservation and federal programs, providing service providers with the tools they need to support organic farmers in implementing sustainable practices. The team will also host participatory learning circles to gather insights into the limitations and needs of specialists, allowing for continuous adaptation of the training to meet those needs. This approach will maximize specialists’ capacity to offer actionable advice and promote programs available to organic farmers.

By achieving these goals and objectives, the project will enhance the capabilities of agricultural professionals and improve the quality of life for organic producers. It will contribute to the economic viability of rural communities, particularly those that have been historically marginalized. As service providers become more adept at offering support, we anticipate improved outcomes for organic farmers, including increased adoption of sustainable practices and greater resilience to climate change.

Furthermore, the project will benefit communities and consumers by promoting more sustainable, economically viable farming practices and fostering a healthier environment. By equipping service providers with the knowledge and resources they need to support organic farmers, we are investing in the future of agriculture in the South. This initiative will help create a more sustainable food system that prioritizes environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic resilience.

In conclusion, the Organic Systems Training project represents a vital step toward addressing the technical assistance needs of organic producers in the Southern region, particularly those from underserved communities. By focusing on the specific challenges these farmers face and equipping service providers with the necessary knowledge and resources, we aim to foster a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural landscape. Through collaboration, education, and community engagement, this project will empower organic farmers and contribute to the overall health and well-being of our communities.