OTA, California Certification Agency Team Up To Provide Stronger Presence In Washington

The Organic Trade Association (OTA) announced it is collaborating with certification agency California Certified Organic Farmers Inc. to strengthen the industry’s national public policy effectiveness. California has more than 470,000 acres in certified organic production; OTA represents 6,500 organic businesses, including 2,500 from California. According to officials of the two organizations, the collaboration enhances the resources needed to protect U.S. organic agriculture. A major goal is to increase the representation of organic producers in federal legislative advocacy. CCOF Inc. will become a member of OTA’s new Producers Advisory Council, which provides OTA with input from organic farmers, ranchers, and growers.