Frequently Asked Questions

How do you obtain organic certification?

Visit the Montana Department of Agriculture's website for Organic Program Information.

Can I certify part of the farm?

Yes, certification may be granted to as much or as little of your operation as you request. However, there may be additional costs, record-keeping and/or documentation requirements for “mixed operations,” with both organic and non-organic production. Such operations must establish and document procedures that ensure the isolation of organic crops and products from non-organic commodities in production, handling, storage and sales. Also, organic crops and products must be protected from contamination by prohibited materials (fertilizers, pesticides, etc.) often used in non-organic production.

How hard is it to become a certified organic producer?

It depends on nature of the operation that is applying. Every farm / ranch is unique and thus, will face different challenges in converting to organic production. For more information, contact the Montana Department of Agriculture. Or visit the Montana Department of Agriculture's website for Converting to Organic Production.

How do you manage weeds in an organic production system?

Organic weed management includes three levels of practices:

Firstly, crop rotation, sanitation and cultural practices to promote crop health and competitiveness are REQUIRED.

Secondly, any of the following practices MAY be used to control weeds, as applicable to the operation:

• mulching,
• mowing,
• livestock grazing,
• hand weeding,
• mechanical cultivation, and/or
• flaming

Finally, IF (AND ONLY IF) the cultural and physical methods (above) are insufficient to adequately control weeds, organic producers may use a biological, botanical or allowed synthetic product for weed control. Any synthetic (man-made) product used must be included on the National List of Synthetic Substances Allowed for Use in Organic Crop Production (7 CFR 205.601).

For more detailed information, see the National Organic Standards, 7 CFR 205.206 on the National Organic Program's website.

What inputs are ok to use in an organic production system?

In order to be “ok” for use in organic production, inputs must be included in the producer’s Organic System Plan (OSP), as approved by a USDA-accredited certifying agent. The OSP must specify the conditions under which an input will be used. The producer must then document that those conditions are met, before resorting to the use of an input. Conditions may include such conditions as pests reaching a specific threshold level or a soil test indicating deficiency of a specific nutrient. Specific products used as production inputs must either be non-synthetic (natural) or be included on the National List of Synthetic Substances Allowed for Use in Organic Crop Production (7 CFR 205.601).

Where can I sell my organic production?

The answer to this question depends largely on the type and volume of products being produced. Organic marketing is quite “entrepreneurial,” and may depend on establishing personal contacts with buyers to ascertain their needs. There is no such thing as an organic “commodity.” Many organic products are sold through direct marketing channels, at Farmers markets, Produce stands or via the internet. There are several major buyers in Montana for organic wheat, other grain crops, flax, peas and lentils. You may contact the Montana Department of Agriculture to request a list of buyers for specific crops. You should also talk with other producers, attend organic agriculture conferences and consider joining support organizations, such as the Montana Organic Association. These actions will help you identify and establish relationships with prospective organic buyers

How much will get for my organic production?

Prices paid for organic products are directly negotiated between buyers and sellers. There is no “Board of Trade” or posted commodity price for organic crops or products. The best way to determine prices available is to ask the buyers directly or to ask other producers.

Is there any financial support to transition to organic production?

Yes, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) offers an incentive payment through their Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). An agricultural producer may receive an annual payment of $35 per acre (maximum $3,500 per year) for 1, 2, or 3 years to offset the costs and risks involved in transitioning to organic crop production. To receive the payment, producers must provide NRCS with documentation from a USDA accredited certifying agency verifying the producer’s successful completion of an organic system plan, annual inspection and review by the certifying agency. Acreage already certified as organic are not eligible for the incentive payment. Contact your local NRCS county office to obtain more information about EQIP.

Organic livestock conversion is available at $3.50 per acre. This is an incentive payment for 3 years and is limited to a maximum of 1,000 acres. Acreage already certified organic is not eligible. This payment is for transition of tame pastures or cropland seeded to pasture to certified organic tame pastures for use in transitioning to organic livestock production and does not include breaking of native sod. Operations approved for the organic livestock production incentive payment must receive a letter or certificate from a USDA accredited certifying agency verifying the producer's successful completion of an organic system plan, annual inspection, and review by the certifying agency.

Last Modified: 10/26/2005