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What to Expect
Achieving full certification as a primary producer is a three-year process.
Converting your Farm operation to Organic systems requires forward planning and a long-term commitment. Producers need to be aware of the potential for some loss of income in the first year as farms enter the pre certification phase, at the commencement of which conventional farming methods and inputs are phased out and and converted to organic practices; and during which product is unable to be sold with reference to 'organic'.
Do not let this dissuade you, however - the key to successful organic farming is an attitude of being in it for the long haul! Many of our certified farmers are testimony to the long-term benefits of organic farming, with resultant improvements to the land farmed, and improved, sustainable incomes.
Year 1- Pre certification
Following an initial farm inspection, there will be a pre certification period of one year, in which you will be under a contract agreement to operate according to NASAA's Standards. The pre-certification period commences at the date of return of the Questionaire (referred to as an Organic Management Plan or OMP). Full compliance with the production standards is required during this 'pre-conversion' period, to demonstrate the producer's ability to manage their enterprise organically, prior to gaining 'in-conversion' status.
During this period, no goods may be labelled or sold as 'Organic'. They may, of course, be sold into conventional markets.
Years 2 and 3 - In-Conversion Certification
A subsequent inspection will be arranged towards the end of your initial 12 months under pre certification to ascertain the degree to which you have met the standards requirements. Certification as 'in-conversion' may be achieved at this point, following a second review by NASAA and the signing of a licence agreement.
The 'in-conversion' period will generally take two years to reach full certification. During this phase, producers may label their goods for sale as organic 'in-conversion'.
Years 3+ - Organic Certification
Following at least three years of consecutive organic management, full certification may be granted to the producer.
Compliance with production standards must continue for your certified status to be ongoing. Annual reinspections of properties and spot inspections are also required to ensure that the standards are being met.
Full certification enables the use of the NASAA 'Certified Organic' label on goods for sale.
Note: Whilst ALL farm operations must undertake a mandatory year in Pre-certification, the process to follow may be expedited taking into account past landuse in accordance with organic standards - including non-use of prohibited inputs at the point of application, and evidence of verifiable records to this effect.
Biodynamic Certification
NASAA has Standards, that specifically address biodynamic production.
Biodynamic production systems are based on principles established by Dr Rudolph Steiner in 1924.
Biodynamic farms seek to enhance the soil's structure and nutrient cycles, as well as plant growth and development with the use of specific Preparations which are made from farm-sourced materials. As the name suggests, these Preparations are designed to work directly with the dynamic biological processes and cycles, which are the basis of soil fertility. While Biodynamic production methods are, by their very nature, compatible with organic standards, organic production systems are not by default biodynamic.
Product certified as Biodynamic can be sold under the NASAA 'Certified Biodynamic' label.
Back to Steps to Certification.
Make an Application.
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In Focus:
Forest Hill Farm. TAS
Forest Hill Farm, owned and managed by the Benson family - Ian and Gloria, and sons - is an established farm enterprise in Tasmania which grows, packs and distributes a range of vegetable produce across Australia, and to export destinations in Europe and South East Asia. More >> |
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"We believe organic certification is important to differentiate between committed certified growers and those who think they are clean and green, but still use systemic sprays for mildew and weedicides."
Sue Armstrong, Organic Vignerons Australia |
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