Organic System Plan (OSP) Templates for Certifiers

Organic System Plan (OSP)
Templates for Certifiers
A Publication of ATTRA - National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service • 1-800-346-9140 • www.attra.ncat.org

By George Kuepper, This publication contains templates that can be used by organic certifying agencies to develop
Holly Born, and and standardize their application materials. Applications for organic certification constitute the
Lance Gegner Organic System plan required by the National Standard. These templates are structured to elicit the
© 2007, NCAT information needed for organic system plans. This document replaces a 2002 ATTRA publication
Creating an Organic Production and Handling System Plan: A Guide to Organic Plan Templates.

Contents Introduction Campaign for Sustainable Agriculture; Lisa
Hummon, Defenders of Wildlife; Nancy
Introduction ..................... 1
Under the National Organic Standard, every Matheson, NCAT; Lisa McCrory, NOFA-VT;
Acknowledgements ...... 1
certified organic farm, ranch, and handling Nancy Ostiguy, The Pennsylvania State Uni-
Template
Descriptions ..................... 1 operation must submit an organic system plan versity; Jim Riddle, University of Minnesota;
Access to Templates ...... 2
or “OSP” when applying for certification, and Pam Riesgraf, Organic Valley; Barbara C.
update that plan annually (or more frequently Robinson, USDA/AMS; Kelly Shea, Horizon
Summary ........................... 2
if operational changes are made). §205.201 Dairy; Kathy Turner-Clifft, Doubletree Ranch
Regulations on Organic
System Plans .................... 3 of the National Standard outlines the specific LLC; Sara Vickerman, Defenders of Wild-
Templates: requirements for a complete OSP. It is cus- life; Ann Wells, Springpond Holistic Animal
Organic Farm Plan tomary, in most instances, for certifying agen- Health; Katherine Withey, Washington State
Template cies to structure their application forms so Dept. of Agriculture.
Organic Farm Plan that all the information required in an OSP,
Update Template
Organic Livestock Plan
is solicited from the applicant. The templates Template Descriptions
Template
provided in this document were created to
address the essential elements of a complete Organic Farm Plan Template
Organic Handling Plan
Template OSP. They are models that certifiers are This template typifies the basic application
encouraged to apply when creating or revising form provided to all farmers and ranch-
their own application/OSP documents. ers who produce crops and graze livestock.
It details how the land and crops will be
Note that this document replaces a 2002 managed in compliance with the National
ATTRA publication Creating an Organic Standard. When completed by the producer
Production and Handling System Plan: A and agreed to by the certifier, it essentially
Guide to Organic Plan Templates. becomes a contract and a roadmap. A Field
Thanks to the following members of the stake- History Sheet is included as part of this
holder team responsible for reviewing and document. Field history sheets are an
guiding development of the Organic Livestock essential part of an OSP.
Plan Template and the biodiversity language The Organic Farm Plan template—as well as
additions to the Organic Farm Plan Tem- Organic Farm Plan Update and the Organic
ATTRA—National Sustainable plate: Katherine Adam, NCAT; Ann Baier, Handling Plan templates—were originally
Agriculture Information Ser- NCAT; Jo Ann Baumgartner, Wild Farm Alli- authored by Jim Riddle and Joyce Ford.
vice is managed by the National
Center for Appropriate Technol- ance; Brenda Book, Washington State Dept. They were created for the Independent
ogy (NCAT) and is funded under of Agriculture; Cissy Bowman, Indiana Cer- Organic Inspectors Association (IOIA) and
a grant from the United States
Department of Agriculture’s tified Organic; Mark Bradley, USDA-NOP; the Organic Certifiers Council (OCC) with
Rural Business- Cooperative
Service. Visit the NCAT Web site
Diane Collins, Organic Farm Marketing; funding from the Federal-State Marketing
(www.ncat.org/agri. Lisa Cone, Waterfall Hollow Farm; Joyce Improvement Program (FSMIP). Revisions
html) for more informa-
tion on our sustainable
E. Ford, Organic Independents; John Fos- were later made with funding assistance from
agriculture projects. ter, Oregon Tilth; Liana Hoodes, National the John Deere Company’s “Go Organic”

project. In 2002, the National Organic Stan- Organic Handling Plan Template
dards Board (NOSB) approved all three tem- This template is intended for use when cre-
plates as guidance documents. In August ating application/OSP documents for pro-
2005, the NOSB approved specific addi- cessing, on-farm processing, and other
tions to the template recommended by the organic handling enterprises. An Organic
Wild Farm Alliance and the National Center Product Profile form is included as part of
for Appropriate Technology (NCAT). These the whole template document.
additions solicited more information on farm
biodiversity planning and practices. Access To The Templates
Organic Farm Plan Update Template All four templates are considered to be in
Many certifiers allow producers to use a the public domain. They may be adapted
much shorter form when doing the annual and used as needed by certifying agen-
Related ATTRA
Publications update of their OSP. The Organic Farm Plan cies, educators, producers, handlers, and
anyone else to whom they might be useful.
Update template is a model of how such a
Organic Farm Certifi- Print copies are available free-of-charge
cation & the National document might look. A Field History Sheet
from ATTRA by calling 1-800-346-9140.
Organic Program is also part of this document and requires
Electronic copies may be downloaded free-
The Organic Certification annual update.
Process of-charge from the ATTRA Web site at:
NCAT’s Organic Crops <www.attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/OSPtemplates.
Organic Livestock Plan Template
Workbook html>.
This template is intended for use when
NCAT’s Organic
Livestock Workbook creating application/OSP documents for
National Organic livestock enterprises. It is structured to Summary
Compliance Checklist address all common livestock enterprises • Each producer and handler must develop
for Producers in a single form. In most instances, pro- an organic system plan (OSP) to obtain
National Organic ducers will also be completing an organic organic certification.
Compliance Checklist
farm plan to address crop, pasture and or
for Handlers
range management. This template has been • Certifying agencies typically provide
Organic Field Crops
designed to “stand alone” as the sole appli- questionnaire that solicit all the informa-
Documentation Forms
cation form in the event that the operation tion needed to constitute a complete OSP.
Organic Livestock
Documentation Forms does not have a crop- or range-land base, as • OSP templates have been designed an
Organic Orchard, Vine- is the case with some poultry operations. approved by the National Organic Pro-
yard, and Berry Crop gram (NOP) and the National Organic
Documentation Forms The Organic Livestock Plan template was
Standards Board (NOSB) as guidance
Organic Market Farm created in 2006 by the National Center
materials for how such questionnaires can
Documentation Forms for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) under
be structured.
Forms, Documents, contract with the National Organic Pro-
and Sample Letters for
Organic Producers
gram (NOP). It received significant input • The OSP templates provided in this publi-
Preparing for an Organic
from a large group of stakeholders from cation may be freely adapted by certifiers
Inspection the organic community. and others as needed.

Page 2 ATTRA Organic System Plan (OSP) Templates for Certifiers

What the Organic Regulations Say about Organic System Plans
§ 205.201 Organic production and (2) A list of each substance to be used years, 4) be sufficient to demonstrate
handling system plan. as a production or handling input, compliance with federal regulations,
indicating its composition, source, and 5) be accessible to inspection by
(a) The producer or handler of a location(s) where it will be used, appropriate officials.
production or handling operation, and documentation of commercial
except as exempt or excluded under availability, as applicable; (5) A description of the management
§ 205.101, intending to sell, label, or practices and physical barriers estab-
represent agricultural products as (3) A description of the monitoring lished to prevent commingling of
“100 percent organic,” “organic,” practices and procedures to be per- organic and nonorganic products
or “made with organic (specified formed and maintained, including on a split operation and to prevent
ingredients or food group(s))” must the frequency with which they will contact of organic production and
develop an organic production or be performed, to verify that the plan handling operations and products
handling system plan that is agreed is effectively implemented; with prohibited substances; and
to by the producer or handler and (4) A description of the recordkeep- (6) Additional information deemed
an accredited certifying agent. An ing system implemented to comply necessary by the certifying agent
organic system plan must meet the with the requirements established to evaluate compliance with the
requirements set forth in this section in § 205.103;* regulations.
for organic production or handling.
An organic production or handling * §205.103 deals with the require- (b) A producer may substitute a plan
system plan must include: ments for recordkeeping by certi- prepared to meet the requirements
fied operators. Records must: 1) be of another Federal, State, or local
(1) A description of practices and well-adapted to the business being government regulatory program for
procedures to be performed and conducted, 2) disclose all activities the organic system plan: Provided,
maintained, including the frequency and transactions in adequate detail, That, the submitted plan meets all
with which they will be performed; 3) be maintained for not less than five the requirements of this subpart.

www.attra.ncat.org ATTRA Page 3

Organic Farm Plan

Please fill out this questionnaire if you are requesting organic farm/crop certification. Use additional sheets if
necessary. Sign this form. You must submit farm maps and field history sheets with this form. Attach all other
supporting documents (soil, tissue or water tests, rented or recently purchased land histories, etc.) outlined in section
9 of this questionnaire. This form or an update form may be used to update certification, according to certifying agent
policies.

SECTION 1: General Information NOP Rule 205.401
Name Farm Name Type of Farm/Crops

Address City For office use only
Date received
State Zip code Date Date reviewed
Reviewer initials
Phone Fax Fees received
Email Inspector
Legal status: Sole proprietorship Trust or non-profit Corporation Cooperative
Legal partnership (federal form 1065) Other (specify)
Year first List previous organic List current organic Year when complete Organic Farm Plan
certified certification by other certification by Questionnaire was last submitted
agencies other agencies

List all crops or products requested for certification.

Have you ever been denied If yes, describe the circumstances:
certification?
Yes No

Do you understand the Do you have a copy of current organic standards? Yes No
current organic Do you have a copy of current OMRI Materials List? Yes No
standards?
Yes No
Do you intend to certify any livestock (slaughter stock, dairy, or layers) this year? Yes No
If yes, have you filled out an Organic Livestock Plan Questionnaire? Yes No

Please note that you must have an Organic Livestock Plan Questionnaire on file to certify any livestock. Contact the certifying
agent to obtain an Organic Livestock Plan Questionnaire.
Do you have any off-farm or on-farm processing done? (cleaning, bagging, bottling, etc.) Yes No
If yes, have you filled out an Organic Handling Plan Questionnaire? Yes No

Please note that you must have an Organic Handling Plan Questionnaire on file to certify the processing/handling portion of
your operation. Contact the certifying agent with your questions or to obtain an Organic Handling Plan Questionnaire.
Give directions to your farm for the inspector.

When are you available to contact? Morning Afternoon Evening
When are you available for the inspection? Morning Afternoon Evening

Organic Farm Plan Page 1 of 20

SECTION 2: Farm Plan Information NOP Rule 205.201(a) and 205.202(a) and (b)
Please complete the table below and attach updated field history sheets that show all fields [organic (O), in transition (T) or
conventional (C)], field numbers, acres, crops planted, projected yields and inputs applied. The acreages listed in this table must
equal field histories and maps. Pastures are considered a crop and must be listed on each form. At least 36 months of histories
are required for all fields.
CROPS REQUESTED FOR
CERTIFICATION FIELD NUMBERS TOTAL ACRES PER CROP PROJECTED YIELDS (VOLUME)

Have you managed all fields for 3 or more years? Yes No
If no, you must submit signed statements from the previous manager stating the use and all inputs applied during the previous 3
years on all newly rented or purchased fields.

Are all fields requested for certification located at the main address listed in Section 1? Yes No

Complete this information for main farm address and each parcel that is in a separate location from the main farm
address.
NUMBER OF ACRES: ORGANIC (O), RENTED (R)
FIELD NUMBERS PARCEL ADDRESS/ TRANSITIONAL (T), CONVENTIONAL (C) OR
LEGAL DESCRIPTION O T C OWNED (O)

SECTION 3: Seeds and Seed Treatments NOP Rule 205.204
NOP Rule requires the use of organically grown seeds, unless the variety is not commercially available. If using non-organic
seeds, you must have records of your attempts to source organic seed. Synthetic seed treatments are prohibited unless
included on the National List. Genetically engineered/modified (GMO) seeds and inoculants are prohibited in organic production.
NOP Rule uses the phrase "excluded methods" to refer to GMO products. Please save all seed and inoculant labels, and
documentation of commercial unavailability of organic seeds to show the inspector.
List all seeds used or planned for use in the current season. Check the appropriate boxes and provide other information as
needed. Attach additional sheets if necessary.
No seeds used All seeds are organic Some untreated seed used No GMO seeds purchased/planted
ORGANIC UNTREATED TREATED GMO TYPE/BRAND OF TREATMENT WHAT ATTEMPTS DID YOU MAKE TO USE
SEED/VARIETY/BRAND ( ) ( ) ( ) ( ) FUNGICIDE INOCULANT ORGANIC/UNTREATED SEED?


SECTION 4: Source of Seedlings and Perennial Stock NOP Rule 205.204
Annual seedlings must be produced according to organic standards. Non-organic perennial plants (planting stock) must be
managed organically for at least one year prior to harvest of crop or sale of the plant as certified organic planting stock. Organic
seedlings and planting stock must be used if commercially available. Contact the certifying agent if you need to use non-organic
seedlings because of an emergency. A prohibited treatment may be used if such treatment is a Federal or State phytosanitary
requirement.

A. DO YOUR PURCHASE ORGANIC SEEDLINGS? Yes No Not applicable

Who are the suppliers?

If certified, by which agents?

Do you purchase non-organic seedlings? Yes No
If yes, state why and describe your attempts to purchase organic seedlings.

B. IF YOU GROW ORGANIC SEEDLINGS ON-FARM: Not applicable

What type and size is your greenhouse?

Do you raise potted plants or plant crops directly in the ground in the greenhouse?

If treated wood is used in any part of your greenhouse, where is it used?

List all soil mix ingredients, fertility products, foliar sprays, and/or pest and disease inputs used or planned for use in
your organic greenhouse operation. Attach labels or have labels available for inspection, as applicable.

STATUS: APPROVED (A)
PRODUCT BRAND NAME OR SOURCE RESTRICTED ® IF RESTRICTED, DESCRIBE COMPLIANCE WITH CHECK IF
PROHIBITED (P) NOP RULE ANNOTATION GMO (

What equipment do you use in your watering system?

How do you prevent seedling diseases and/or insect problems?


C. IF YOU GROW BOTH ORGANIC AND NON-ORGANIC PLANTS IN YOUR GREENHOUSE: Not applicable

What organic and non-organic crops are grown? List varieties if the same organic and non-organic corps are grown (parallel
production).

How do you separate and identify organic and non-organic growing areas?

How do you label organic and non-organic seedlings/plants?

List all soil mix ingredients, fertility products, foliar sprays, water system additives, and/or pest and disease inputs
used or planned for use in your non-organic greenhouse operation. Attach labels or have labels available for the inspector,
as applicable.
STATUS: APPROVED (A) CHECK IF
PRODUCT BRAND NAME OR SOURCE RESTRICTED ® IF RESTRICTED, DESCRIBE COMPLIANCE WITH GMO
PROHIBITED (P) NOP RULE ANNOTATION ( )

How do you prevent commingling of organic and non-organic soil mixes during mixing and storage?

Where do you store inputs used for non-organic production?

How do you prevent drift of prohibited materials through ventilation and/or watering systems?

How do you clean seedling containers and equipment?

D. PLANTING STOCK: (Use additional sheets if necessary) Not applicable
NON- IF NON- IF NON-ORGANIC, IF NON-ORGANIC, DESCRIBE
TYPE PLANTING STOCK ORGANIC ORGANIC ORGANIC, DATE EXPECTED ATTEMPTS TO OBTAIN ORGANIC
SOURCE ( ) ( ) PLANTED HARVEST DATE PLANTING STOCK


SECTION 5: Soil and Crop Fertility Management NOP Rule 205.203 and 205.205
A. GENERAL INFORMATION AND EVALUATION:

What are your general soil types?

What are your soil/nutrient deficiencies? No deficiencies

How do you monitor the effectiveness of your fertility management program? soil testing
microbiological testing tissue testing observation of soil observation of crop health
comparison of crop yields crop quality testing other (specify)
Attach copies of available test results.
How often do you conduct fertility monitoring? weekly monthly annually as needed
other (specify)
Rate the effectiveness of your fertility management program. excellent satisfactory needs improvement
What changes do you anticipate?

What are the major components of your soil and crop fertility plan?
crop rotation green manure plowdown/cover crops interplanting incorporation of crop residues
subsoiling summer fallow compost on-farm manure off-farm manure soil amendments
side dressing foliar fertilizers biodynamic preparations soil inoculants other (specify)

List all fertility inputs used or intended for use in the current season on proposed organic and transitional fields. All
inputs used during the current year and previous three years must be listed on the Field History Sheet. Not applicable
STATUS: APPROVED (A) NUMBER OF
PRODUCT BRAND NAME OR SOURCE RESTRICTED (R) APPLICATIONS REASON FOR USE
PROHIBITED (P) PER YEAR

If you use or plan to use restricted (R) fertility inputs, how do you comply with the "annotation"? Not applicable

If you use fertilizers with high salt content (sodium nitrate, potassium sulfate, etc.), how do you prevent salt build-up?
Not applicable

Do you burn crop residues? Yes No
If yes, please describe what materials are burned and why.

Do you apply sewage sludge to fields? Yes No
If yes, list fields where applied.


B. COMPOST USE:
NOP Rule 205.203(c)(2) requires that the composting process include a C:N ration of between 25:1 and 40:1 and maintenance
of temperatures between 131ºF. and 170ºF for a specific number of days, depending on the method of composting. Keep a
compost production record to verify compliance.

List all compost ingredients/additives. Not applicable

What composting method do you use? in-vessel static aerated pile windrows other (specify)

What is your C:N ratio?

Do you monitor temperature? Yes No
If yes, what temperature is maintained.

How long is this temperature maintained?

If compost is windrowed, how many times are materials turned?

C. MANURE USE:
NOP Rule 205.203(c)(1) requires that raw manure be fully composted unless applied to fields with crops not for human
consumption or incorporated into the soil 120 days prior to harvest for crops whose edible portions has direct contact with the
soil, or 90 days prior to harvest for all other crops for human consumption.

What forms of manure do you use? none liquid semi-solid piled fully composted
other (specify)
What types of crops do you grow? Check all boxes that apply.
crops not used for human consumption
crops for human consumption whose edible portion has direct contact with the soil or soil particles
crops for human consumption whose edible portion does not have direct contact with the soil or soil particles

If you grow crops for human consumption and use raw manure, complete the following table. If composting manure,
please fill out Section B above.
DATE MANURE IS EXPECTED DATE OF
CROP(S) FIELD NUMBERS APPLIED HARVEST

What is the source of the manure you use? on-farm off-farm Not applicable

List all sources of off-farm manure.

List all manure ingredients/additives.

If you use manure, what are the potential contaminants (pit additives, feed additives, pesticides, antibiotics, heavy
metals, etc.) from these sources? Attach residue analysis/additive specifications for manure, if available.


D. NATURAL RESOURCES:
NOP Rule 205.2 defines Organic Production as a production system managed in accordance with the Act and its regulations to
respond to site-specific conditions by integrating cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources,
promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. NOP Rule 205.200 and 205.203(a) requires that production practices
maintain or improve natural resources (soil and water quality, wetlands, woodlands and wildlife) of the operation.

–Biodiversity Management: Whole Farm Biodiversity Considerations.

Does your field map include features such as hedgerows, woodlands, wetlands, riparian zones, and special habitats?
Yes No

List native plants present, and/or wildlife seen moving through farm: (note priority species)

What steps do you take to plan/provide for biodiversity conservation? understand farm’s location within watershed
ascertain what native plants and animals existed on the land before it was a farm learn about regional natural
areas and conservation priorities work with neighbors/others to enhance biodiversity (connectivity, restoration, etc.)
other (describe/explain)

How do you manage water for the needs of crops/livestock, native species and riparian ecosystems?
plant regionally appropriate crops  conserve water manage water for priority species retain/restore
vegetated riparian buffers/wetlands protect/improve natural hydrology/ecological function of riparian area other
(describe/explain)

–Biodiversity Management: Uncultivated Area Biodiversity.

What actions do you take to provide habitat for pollinators, insect predators, birds and bats? bird/bat/bee boxes
hedgerows/windbreaks maintain/provide natural roosting/nesting/foraging sites other (describe/explain)

How are you restoring and/or protecting natural areas? manage for native plants/wildlife specific to the site
preserve/restore wildlife corridors establish legal conservation areas native habitats not converted to
farmland since certification  other (describe/explain)

List problem invasives:

What actions do you take to control invasive plant/animal species, especially those threatening natural areas?
learn about invasives use weed- and pest-free seed/planting stock/soil amendments/mulches monitor for
new introductions and control immediately suppress invasives using organic methods other (describe/explain)

–Biodiversity Management: Cropland Area Biodiversity.

How do you conserve and provide habitat for wildlife? companion planting/intercropping crop diversity
wildlife-friendly fences manage fallow fields for wildlife other (describe/explain)

How do you schedule farm practices to benefit wildlife? avoid nests during breeding season stagger
mowing/tilling practices plan fields to leave food/cover for wildlife other (describe/explain)

–Biodiversity Management: When Livestock are Involved.

How do you protect riparian areas and sensitive habitats? fence without impacting wildlife control sensitive area
access prevent bank erosion animals fed away from water other (describe/explain)


What are you doing to improve your pasture or rangeland? prevent overgrazing reseed trampled/eroded areas
plant native pasture
 active grazing management system prescribed burning other (describe/explain)

What wildlife-friendly management practices do you use? guard animals grazing scheduled when predation
pressure low livestock spend night in protected area circumstances of livestock death documented
other (describe/explain)

List problems with predators or other wildlife:

Have you assessed the farm for biodiversity problems and greatest opportunities, and developed goals an a timeline
for biodiversity conservation? Yes No (If yes, describe/explain)

How do you monitor farm biodiversity? visually species counts other (describe/explain)

–Biodiversity Management: Wild Harvest Enterprises.

How do you maintain or improve the sustainability of the harvested species? harvest from stable populations
minimize disruption of priority species/sensitive habitats avoid erosion allow re-establishment monitor
wild crop sustainability other (describe/explain)

–Soil Conservation

What soil conservation practices are used? terraces contour farming strip cropping winter cover
crops undersowing/interplanting conservation tillage permanent waterways windbreaks
firebreaks tree lines retention ponds riparian management maintain wildlife habitat
other (specify)

What soil erosion problems do you experience (why and on which fields)? none

Describe your efforts to minimize soil erosion problems listed above.

Describe how you monitor the effectiveness of your soil conservation program.

How often do you conduct conservation monitoring? weekly monthly annually as needed
other (specify)

WATER USE: none
irrigation livestock foliar sprays washing crops greenhouse other (specify)

Source of water: on-site well(s) river/creek/pond spring municipal/county irrigation district
other (specify)
Attach current water tests for nitrates and coliform bacteria, per certifying agent policy.
Type of irrigation system: none
drip flood center pivot other (specify)


What input products are applied through the irrigation system? none

What products do you use to clean irrigation lines/nozzles? none

Is the system shared with another operator? Yes No
If yes, what products do they use?

Is the system flushed and documented between conventional and organic use? Yes No

What practices are used to protect water quality?
fencing livestock from waterways scheduled use of water to conserve its use tensiometer/monitoring
laser leveling/land forming drip irrigation micro-spray sediment basin compost/fertilizer stored
away from water other (specify)

List known contaminants in water supplies in your area. Attach residue analysis and/or salinity test results, if applicable.

Describe your efforts to minimize water contamination problems listed above. Not applicable

Describe how you monitor the effectiveness of your water quality program.

How often do you conduct water quality monitoring? weekly monthly annually as needed
other (specify)


SECTION 6: Crop Management NOP Rule 205.205 and 205.206
NOP Rule requires a crop rotation plan that maximizes soil organic matter content, prevents weed, pest, and disease problems, and
manages deficient or excess plant nutrients. Your crop rotation may include sod, cover crops, green manure crops, and catch crops.
Producers must utilize sanitation measures to remove disease vectors, weed seeds, and habitat for pests. Cultural practices, including
selection of plant species and varieties adapted to site-specific conditions, must be used to enhance crop health.
Approved synthetic materials on the National List 205.601 may only be used when management practices are insufficient to prevent or
control problems. All weed, pest, and disease inputs must be approved. A "restricted" input has specific annotations for its use. If you
use a "restricted" material, you must provide evidence of how you address the materials' annotation.

A. CROP ROTATION PLANS: (Use one line for each rotation used)
FIELD NUMBERS WHERE PLAN IS
CROP ROTATION PLAN FOLLOWED ANTICIPATED CHANGES

B. WEED MANAGEMENT PLAN: No weed problems

What are your problem weeds?

What weed control methods do you use? crop rotation field preparation prevention of weed seed set
delayed seeding monitoring soil temperature soil sterilization use of fast emerging varieties
mechanical cultivation use of hand tools hand weeding mowing livestock grazing
flame weeding steam weeding electrical smother crops black fallow non-synthetic mulch
synthetic mulch corn gluten soap-based herbicides other (specify)

Do you keep a record of how often you utilize these weed control methods, i.e., dates and fields when you cultivate or
flame weed? Yes No
All inputs used or intended for use during the current year and used in the previous three years must be listed on your Field
History Sheet.

USE OF RESTRICTED WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES: none used

If you use plastic or other synthetic mulches, is the mulch removed at the end of the growing or harvest season?
Yes No
If no, why not?

If you use corn gluten, is the corn genetically modified? Yes No
If no, what verification do you have?

If you use soap-based herbicides, list all areas where used.

If you use newspaper or other recycled paper for mulch, do you use paper with glossy or colored inks? Yes No
EVALUATION:
Rate the effectiveness of your weed management program: excellent satisfactory needs improvement

How do you monitor the effectiveness of your weed management program? weed counts
observation of weed types comparison of crop yields records kept of observations/counts
other (specify)

How often do you conduct weed monitoring? weekly monthly annually as needed
other (specify)


C. PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN: No pest problems

What are your problem pests? insects (list)
rodents gophers birds other animals (specify)
Do you work with a pest control advisor? Yes No
If yes, give name and contact information.

What strategies do you use to control pest damage to crops? none used
crop rotation selection for plant species/varieties development of habitat for natural enemies
timing of planting companion planting frog ponds bat houses bird houses hand picking
monitoring trap crops physical barriers physical removal traps lures IPM
insect repellents animal repellents release of predators/parasites of pest species
use of approved products use of restricted products limited use of prohibited products
other (specify)

Do you keep a record of how often you utilize these pest control methods, i.e., dates when you scout or apply inputs to
a specific field or crop? Yes No

List all pest control products used or intended for use in the current season on organic and transitional fields. All
inputs used or intended for use during the current year and in the previous three years must be listed on your Field History
Sheet. Not applicable
STATUS: APPROVED (A)
PEST PROBLEM CONTROL PRODUCT RESTRICTED (R) IF RESTRICTED, DESCRIBE COMPLIANCE WITH NOP CHECK IF
PROHIBITED (P) RULE ANNOTATION GMO ( )

EVALUATION:
Rate the effectiveness of your pest management program? excellent satisfactory needs improvement

How do you monitor the effectiveness of your pest management program? insect monitoring with traps
observation of crop health comparison of crop yields crop quality testing monitoring records kept
other (specify)
Attach copies of your test results, if applicable.

How often do you conduct pest monitoring? weekly monthly annually as needed
other (specify)


D. DISEASE MANAGEMENT PLAN: No disease problems

What are your problem crop diseases?

What disease prevention strategies do you use? crop rotation field sanitation plant spacing
selection of plant species/varieties timing of planting/cultivating vector management soil balancing
solarization companion planting compost/tea use use of approved materials
use of restricted materials limited use of prohibited materials other (specify)

List all disease management inputs used or intended for use on your organic and transitional fields/crops. All inputs
used or intended for use during the current year and used in the previous three years must be listed on your Field History Sheet.
Not applicable
STATUS: APPROVED (A) CHECK IF
DISEASE PROBLEM CONTROL PRODUCT RESTRICTED (R) IF RESTRICTED, DESCRIBE COMPLIANCE WITH GMO
PROHIBITED (P) NOP RULE ANNOTATION ( )

EVALUATION:
Rate the effectiveness of your disease management program? excellent satisfactory needs improvement

How do you monitor the effectiveness of your pest management program? soil testing
microbiological testing observation of soil observation of crop health comparison of crop yields
crop quality testing monitoring records kept other (specify)
Attach copies of your test results, if applicable.

How often do you conduct pest monitoring? weekly monthly annually as needed
other (specify)


SECTION 7: Maintenance of Organic Integrity NOP Rule 205.201(a)(5) and 205.202(c)

A. ADJOINING LAND USE:
NOP RULE requires that organic production areas have distinct boundaries and buffer zones to prevent the unintended
application of a prohibited substance or contact with a prohibited substance that is applied to adjoining land not under organic
management. Adjoining land includes crop land, pastures, residential property, fallow land, etc. Buffer areas may change
annually, depending on contamination potential from adjoining land uses. The width of the minimum buffer is dependent on
certifying agent policy. The NOP Rule requires that the buffer must be sufficient in size or other features (windbreaks, diversion
ditches) to prevent the unintended contact by prohibited substances applied to adjacent land areas. Crops within the required
buffer must be left unharvested or harvested, stored, and disposed of as nonorganic crop, with records kept of crop disposition.
Indicate buffer zones and show all adjoining land uses on your field maps.

List specific buffer areas you maintain. (Show all adjoining land uses on your field maps.) Not applicable
TYPE OF BUFFER IF CROP IS HARVESTED FROM
LOCATION OR (CROP LAND, TREELINE, WIDTH OF ADJOINING LAND USE BUFFER, DESCRIBE USE (SALE,
FIELD NUMBER HEDGEROW, WILDLIFE BUFFER NON-ORGANIC LIVESTOCK FEED,
PLANTING, GRASS STRIP) SEED, ETC.)

If crops are harvested from the buffer zones with equipment used for harvesting organic crops, what safeguards do
you use to protect organic crops from contact with buffer crops during harvest?

What additional safeguards do you use to prevent accidental contamination? none
Written notification to: highway departments electric companies aerial spray companies/airports
adjoining landowners drainage commissions farm service office other (specify)

Have you posted "No Spray" signs along roadsides that adjoin organic fields? Yes No
Do any fields or portions of fields flood frequently? (more than once every ten years) Yes No
If yes, list field numbers
How do you monitor for crop contamination? visual observation residue analysis GMO testing
photographs wind direction/speed data other (specify)

How often do you conduct crop contamination monitoring? weekly monthly annually as needed
other (specify)

Do you grow the same crops organically, as well as in transition, and/or conventionally? Yes No
This is called 'parallel production'. If yes, list specific crop varieties in the next table for both organic and
transitional/conventional crops.


If you grow any conventional or transitional crops, please fill out the following tables. Not applicable
TRANSITIONAL (T) CHECK PLANNED USE OF CROP SAME AS
SPECIFIC FIELD NUMBERS OR IF GMO TOTAL (SALE, SEED, NONORGANIC ORGANIC
CROPS/VARIETIES CONVENTIONAL © ( ) ACREAGE LIVESTOCK FEED, ETC.) CROP? Y OR N

Prohibited soil amendments used on conventional crops:
PRODUCT NAME WHO APPLIES? FIELD NUMBERS WHERE STORED? (ON-FARM OR OFF-FARM;
SELF (S) OR CUSTOM © WHERE APPLIED WHERE ON FARM?)

Prohibited herbicides/pesticides used on conventional crops:
PRODUCT NAME WHO APPLIES? FIELD NUMBERS WHERE APPLIED WHERE STORED? (ON-FARM OR OFF-FARM;
SELF (S) OR CUSTOM (C) WHERE ON FARM?)

B. EQUIPMENT:
To prevent commingling and contamination, all equipment used in organic crop production must be free of non-organic crops
and prohibited materials, Equipment used for both organic and non-organic farming must be cleaned and flushed prior to use on
organic fields or crops. Keep records of equipment clean and flush activities.
List equipment used for planting, tillage, spraying, and harvesting. Not applicable
EQUIPMENT NAME OWNED (O), RENTED CHECK IF USED ON BOTH ORGANIC HOW IS EQUIPMENT CLEANED BEFORE USE ON
(R), OR CUSTOM (C) AND CONVENTIONAL ( ) ORGANIC FIELDS?

EQUIPMENT NAME OWNED (O), RENTED CHECK IF USED ON BOTH ORGANIC HOW IS EQUIPMENT CLEANED BEFORE USE ON
CONTINUED (R), OR CUSTOM (C) AND CONVENTIONAL ( ) ORGANIC FIELDS?


Is your equipment maintained so that fuel, oil and hydraulic fluid do not leak? Yes No Not applicable

If you use a sprayer:
What type? Did you purchase it new or used? new used

Other equipment:
Could any equipment you use have been contaminated by previous uses? Yes No
If yes, describe:

C. HARVEST:
NOP Rule 205.272(b)(1) and (2) requires that containers, bins, and packaging materials must not contain synthetic fungicides,
preservatives, or fumigants. All reusable containers must be thoroughly cleaned and pose no risk of contamination prior to use.

How are your organic crops harvested? mechanical by hand
Are any organic crops custom harvested? Yes No
If yes, provide name and address of custom harvester.

Describe steps taken to protect organic crops from commingling and contamination during harvest.

What containers are used for harvesting? gravity wagons/boxes truck boxes cardboard/waxed boxes
wooden totes plastic containers other (specify)

Are containers new or used? new used
If used, what did they contain prior to organic use?

Are the containers used for organic crops only? Yes No
Describe potential contamination or commingling problems you have with harvest of organic crops. none


D. POST-HARVEST HANDLING: Not applicable
NOP Rule 205.201(a)(5) requires that post-harvest handling procedures do not contaminate organic products with non-organic
crops or prohibited materials. For on-farm processing, you may need to complete an Organic Handling Plan Questionnaire.

Describe your post-harvest handling procedures and equipment.

Is the processing area and equipment used for both organic and non-organic products? Yes No
If yes, describe steps taken to prevent commingling and contamination.

Does packaging present any contamination problems for your organic products? Yes No
If yes, what are they?

Check types of packaging material used: bulk paper cardboard wood glass metal
foil plastic waxed paper aseptic natural fiber synthetic fiber other (specify)

In what form are finished products shipped? dry bulk liquid bulk tote bags tote boxes paper
bags foil bags metal drums mesh bags cardboard drums cardboard cases plastic crates
other (specify)

E. CROP STORAGE: No organic crop storage
Operators must keep organic and non-organic crops in separate storage areas and prevent commingling and contamination.
Storage records must be maintained.

Describe your storage locations.
STORAGE ID # TYPE OF CROPS STORED TYPE OF STORAGE CAPACITY/SIZE ORGANIC (O), TRANSITIONAL (T),
BUFFER (B), CONVENTIONAL (C)

Do you use the same storage areas for organic, transitional, buffer, and/or conventional crops. Yes No
If yes, how do you segregate organic crops from non-organic crops?

How do you clean storage units prior to storage of organic crops?

How do you prevent/control insect pests in crop storage areas? No insect problems

How do you control rodents in crop storage areas? No rodent problems

What stored crop inputs have you used in the last three years? none
synthetic fumigants rodenticides sprouting inhibitors ripeners growth regulators
preservatives oils coloring agents waxes other (specify)

Are any stored crop inputs used or planned for use on organic crops? Yes No
If yes, specify input and retain labels.


F. TRANSPORTATION: Not applicable
Who is responsible for arranging transportation of organic products? self buyer other (specify)

Describe how organic products are transported.

What potential contamination or commingling problems do you have with the transport of organic crops? none

What steps are taken to protect the integrity of organic products during transport?
dedicated organic only inspecting transport units prior to loading cleaning transport units prior to loading
use of Clean Truck Affidavits letter/contract with transport company stating organic requirements
other (specify)


SECTION 8: Record Keeping System NOP Rule 205.103
NOP Rule requires that records disclose all activities and transactions of the operation, be maintained for 5 years, and demonstrate
compliance with the NOP Rule. Organic products must be tracked back to the field/location where they were produced/harvested. All
records must be accessible to the inspector.
A. RECORDS: Please have these records available for the inspector.
Which of the following records do you keep for organic production?
field maps
field activity log(s)
field history sheets (previous three years)
documentation of previous land use for rented and/or newly purchased land
input records for soil amendments, seeds, manure, foliar sprays, and pest control products (keep all labels)
documentation of attempts to source organic seeds and/or planting stock
documentation of organic seedlings
residue analyses of inputs (i.e., manure sourced off-farm)
compost production records
monitoring records (soil tests, tissue tests, water tests, quality tests, observations)
equipment cleaning records
harvest records that show field numbers, date of harvest, and harvest amounts (including custom harvest records)
label records
storage records that show storage location, storage identification, field numbers, amounts stored, and cleaning activities
clean transport records
sales records (purchase order, contract, invoice, cash receipts, cash receipt journal, sales journal, etc.)
shipping records (scale ticket, dump station ticket, bill of lading)
Transaction Certificates
audit control summary
complaint log
other (please specify)

How long do you keep your records?

Which of the following records do you keep for conventional production? Not applicable
field maps labor records
field history sheets storage records
input records sales records
harvest records shipping records
other (specify)

B. MARKETING:
Type of Marketing:
farmers market direct to retail CSA/subscription service wholesale on-farm retail
bulk commodities to processor contract to buyer other (specify)

Do you use or plan to use the USDA organic seal on product labels or market information? Yes No
Do you use or plan to use the seal of the certifying agent on product labels or market information? Yes No
Attach copies of all organic product labels.


SECTION 9: Affirmation

I affirm that all statements made in this application are true and correct. No prohibited products have been applied to any of my
organically managed fields during the three-year period prior to projected harvest. I understand that the operation may be
subject to unannounced inspection and/or sampling for residues at any time as deemed appropriate to ensure compliance with
the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 and National Organic Program Rules and Regulations. I understand that acceptance
of this questionnaire in no way implies granting of certification by the certifying agent. I agree to provide further information as
required by the certifying agent.

Signature of Operator Date ___________________

I have attached the following documents:
Maps of all parcels/fields (showing adjoining land use and field identification)
Field history sheets
Documentation for fields owned or rented for less than three years, if applicable
Water test, if applicable
Soil and/or plant tissue tests, if applicable
Residue analyses, if applicable
Input product labels, if applicable
Organic product labels, if applicable

I have made copies of this questionnaire and other supporting documents for my own records.
Submit completed form, fees, and supporting documents to:


FIELD HISTORY SHEET

Instructions: Fill out this Field History Sheet for all fields (organic, transitional, and conventional). You can use your own form as long as it
contains the same information. List all inputs used or planned for use, including compost and/or manure. Inputs that have already been applied
must include the rate and date of application unless you are keeping separate input records. Keep copies for your files. This form should
accompany your Organic Farm Plan or Organic Farm Plan Update form.
Code: O = Organic; T = In Transition/Conversion to Organic; C = Conventional Producer Name

Code Field ACRES/ Year Year Year Year
No. ha. Crop I n puts Crop Inputs Crop Inputs Crop Inputs


Organic Farm Plan Update

This form should be filled out by crop producers to update their organic farm system plans. Use additional sheets if
necessary. Attach a field history sheet for current year, updated farm maps (if any changes), and other records required by
the certifying agent.

SECTION 1: General Information NOP Rule 205.406(a)(2) and 205.401(b)
Name Farm Name Type of Farm/Crops

Address City For office Use Only
Date received
St./Prov. Postal/Zip Code Country Date reviewed
Reviewer
Phone Fax E-mail

Legal Status: Sole Proprietorship Trust or non-profit Corporation Organic Certification No.
Cooperative Legal Partnership (federal form 1065) Other-specify
Year first List previous organic certification by List current organic certification
Do you understand current
certified other agencies by other agencies organic standards?
yes no
Have you ever been denied If yes, describe the reasons for denial and attach documentation of corrective
Certification? yes no actions.
Preferred dates and time for inspection visit:
morning afternoon evening

SECTION 2: Minor Noncompliances NOP Rule 205.406(a)(3)
Did you have any minor noncompliances from last year's certification? yes no
If yes, please complete the following table, listing each minor non-compliance.
Minor Noncompliance Describe how you addressed the minor noncompliance.

SECTION 3: Organic Plan Update NOP Rule 205.406(a)(1)
A. Current crop plans
Please complete the following table for all current year's crops or products requested for certification.
Crops Requested for Certification Field Numbers Total Acres/Hectares Projected Yields

Organic Farm Plan Update Page 1 of 5

B. Organic Farm Plan Changes
What year did you last submit a complete Organic Farm Plan Questionnaire?
Have you reviewed your Organic Farm Plan Questionnaire? yes no Date of review:

Check the following categories where changes have been made in your Organic Farm Plan and summarize all changes
made or planned to be made. Attach additional sheets if necessary. No changes
Farm Plan Topic Summary Statement of Changes
General information
Newly purchased or rented fields*
Farm maps
Seeds and seed treatments
Seedlings and perennial stock
Soil fertility management
Compost or manure use
Conservation practices
Water quality and use
Crop rotation
Weed management plan
Pest management plan
Disease management plan
Adjoining land use and buffers
Split or parallel operation
Equipment
Harvest plan
Post-harvest handling
Crop storage
Crop transportation
Record keeping system
Type of marketing/product labels
* If you have newly purchased land or have rented land this year that is being requested for certification, attach a signed
statement from the previous owner (if purchased) or current owner (if renting) attesting to previous 3 year history and
inputs applied.

C. Inputs

List all seeds used or planned for use in the current crop season. Check the appropriate boxes and provide other
information as needed. Attach additional sheets if necessary. Have all labels and receipts available for the inspector.
Seed/Variety/Brand Organic Untreated Treated GMO Type/Brand of Treatment Describe your attempts to
( ) ( ) ( ) ( ) Fungicide Inoculant use organic/untreated seed?


List all fertility inputs, soil mix ingredients, pest and disease control products, water additives, or other inputs used or
intended for use in the current season on proposed organic and transitional fields. Use additional sheets if necessary.
All inputs used during the current year must be listed on your Field History Sheet.
Have all labels and receipts available for the inspector. No inputs used
Status: Approved (A) Check if
Product Brand name or Restricted (R) If restricted, describe compliance with NOP GMO
source Prohibited (P) Rule Annotation ( )

D. Monitoring Practices and Procedures Ongoing monitoring is required by the NOP Rule Section 205.201(a)(3).

Fertility Management Program
Rate the effectiveness of your fertility management program: excellent satisfactory needs improvement
Describe any changes you have made or intend to make based on the results of your monitoring program.

Natural Resource Management
Rate the effectiveness of your soil conservation program: excellent satisfactory needs improvement

Rate the effectiveness of your water quality program: excellent satisfactory needs improvement

Weed, Pest, and Disease Management
Rate the effectiveness of your weed management program: excellent satisfactory needs improvement

Rate the effectiveness of your pest management program: excellent satisfactory needs improvement

Rate the effectiveness of your disease management program: excellent satisfactory needs improvement


Other Monitoring: Indicate if you conduct monitoring in the following areas:
Maintenance of Organic Integrity
yes no Adjoining land uses, buffers, notification letters, posting signs
yes no Input equipment cleaning (sprayers, planters, etc.)
yes no Harvest equipment cleaning
yes no Crop testing for contaminants (prohibited materials, GMOs)
yes no Post harvest handling
yes no Crop storage cleaning
yes no Transportation of organic crops
Recordkeeping
yes no Compost production records
yes no Labor records
yes no Appropriate Organic Certificates or Transaction Certificates to verify purchase of organic products
yes no Complaint log

Section 4 Annual Summary of Organic Crop Yield and Sales NOP Section 205.103

The following organic crops/products have been sold from ___________(date) to ____________(date).
Remaining
Crops/Products # of Acres Actual Yield Amount Sold Amount Left to Sell Crop
Storage ID #

Expand table or attach additional sheets as necessary.

Section 5 Affirmation
I affirm that all statements made in this application are true and correct. No prohibited products have been applied to any of my
organically managed fields during the three-year period prior to projected harvest. I understand that the operation may be subject to
unannounced inspection and/or sampling for residues at any time as deemed appropriate to ensure compliance with the NOP Rule. I
understand that acceptance of this questionnaire in no way implies granting of certification by the certifying agent. I agree to follow
the NOP Rule.
Signature of Operator ______________________________________________________________________ Date______________

I have attached the following documents:
Updated maps of all parcels/fields (showing adjoining land use and field identification)
Field history sheets for current crops
Documentation for fields owned or rented for less than three years, if applicable
Water test, if applicable
Soil and/or plant tissue tests, if applicable
Residue analyses, if applicable
Input product labels, if applicable
Organic product labels, if applicable

I have made copies of this questionnaire and other supporting documents for my own records.


FIELD HISTORY SHEET

Instructions: Fill out this Field History Sheet for all fields (organic, transitional, and conventional). You can use your own form as long as it contains the same information. List all
inputs used or planned for use, including compost and/or manure. Inputs that have already been applied must include the rate and date of application unless you are keeping
separate input records. Keep copies for your files. This form should accompany your Organic Farm Plan or Organic Farm Plan Update form.
Code: O = Organic; T = In Transition/Conversion to Organic; C = Conventional Producer Name

Code Field Acres/ Year Year Year Year
No. ha. Crop I n puts Crop Inputs Crop Inputs Crop Inputs


Organic Livestock Production Plan
Please fill out this questionnaire if you are requesting organic livestock certification. Use additional sheets if
necessary. Sign this form. In most instances, you must also complete and submit an Organic Farm Plan. This form or
an update form may be used to update certification, according to certifying agent policies.

SECTION 1: General Information NOP Rule 205.401

Name Farm Name Type of Operation

Address City For office use only
Date received
State Zip code Date Date reviewed
Reviewer initials
Phone Fax Fees received
Email Inspector

Legal status: Sole proprietorship Trust or non-profit Corporation Cooperative
Legal partnership (federal form 1065) Other (specify)
Year first List previous organic List current organic certification by
certified certification by other other agencies
agencies

1) Is your farm operation:

100% organic a split operation (both organic and conventional production)

2) Indicate livestock enterprises requested for certification.

dairy goats hogs

beef poultry for slaughter other__________________

sheep egg production other__________________

3) Have you ever been denied certification? Yes No

a) If yes, describe the circumstances, including the certification agent involved, the reason certification was denied, and any
steps taken:

4) Has your certification ever been revoked or suspended? Yes No

a) If yes, please explain.

5) Do you have an updated copy of the NOP regulations? Yes No

6) Do you have copies of all other standards (IFOAM, JAS, etc.)
for which you are seeking certification? Yes No Not applicable

______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Organic Livestock Plan Page 1 of 19

7) Do you intend to certify any crops, cropland, or pasture acreage this year? Yes No
a) If yes, have you also completed an Organic System Plan for crops? Yes No

Please note that you must submit an Organic System Plan for crops to certify any land or crops including pasture. Contact
the certifying agent to obtain the necessary application forms.

8) Is any off-farm or on-farm processing done (slaughtering, packaging, bottling, etc.)? Yes No
a) If yes, have you submitted and Organic Handling System Plan? Yes No

Please note that you must submit an Organic Handling System Plan to certify the processing/handling portion of your
operation. Contact the certifying agent with your questions or to obtain the necessary application forms.

9) Give directions to your farm for the inspector.

10) When are you available to contact? Morning Afternoon Evening

11) When are you available for the inspection? Morning Afternoon Evening

SECTION 2: Prior Non compliances NOP Rule 205.406(a)(3)

1) Did you have any non-compliances from last year’s certification? Yes No Not applicable
a) If yes, please complete the following table, listing each non-compliance.

NON-COMPLIANCE DESCRIBE HOW YOU ADDRESSED THE NON-COMPLIANCE

Attach additional sheet if needed.

SECTION 3: Livestock Inventory Descriptions NOP Rule 205.236

1) Provide the following information for the types and numbers of animals being raised for production this year. : Prior Non
compliances NOP Rule 205.406(a)(3)

TYPE ORGANIC TRANSITIONAL* CONVENTIONAL**

Dairy cattle

Dairy goats

Dairy sheep
__________________________
Beef cattle
______________________________________________________________________________________________________

TYPE ORGANIC TRANSITIONAL* CONVENTIONAL**
__________________________
Meat goats
__________________________
Meat/wool sheep
__________________________
Hogs
__________________________
Chickens
__________________________
Turkeys

(Other)

(Other)
*Dairy animals can be converted to organic milk production after 12 months, but milk from these animals is not organic during
the conversion.

**Neither conventional nor transitional animals can be used for organic production, except as breeding stock.

SECTION 4: Origin of Organic Livestock NOP Rule 205.236

A. Source of Mammalian Livestock Not applicable

Livestock products that are to be sold or represented as organic must be from livestock under continuous organic
management from the last third of gestation. Except:

• Milk or milk products must be from animals that have been under continuous organic management for at least 1 year prior
to production. Exceptions might be made where a whole herd is converted to organic production.

• Nonorganic breeder stock may be brought onto an organic operation at any time. However, if offspring from that stock are
to be raised as organic, the breeder stock must be brought onto the operation prior to the last third of gestation.

1) Do you raise organic slaughter animals on-farm? Yes No Not applicable

2) Do you raise organic dairy replacement animals on-farm? Yes No Not applicable

3) Do you raise organic fiber producing animals on-farm? Yes No Not applicable

4) If you purchase any livestock, supply specific information: Not applicable

IDENTIFICATIO DATE OF PROJECTED OR PURCHASE ORGANIC (O) CERTIFICATION AGENCY?
TYPE OF LIVESTOCK N NO. /NAME PURCHASE ACTUAL BIRTHING SOURCE
DATE CONVENTIONAL (C)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

5) If you are a dairy operation, what is your current plan for replacement stock? Not applicable

purchase organic dairy animals % of total replacements___________

purchase conventional stock and transition them to organic % of total replacements___________

raise own organic replacements % of total replacements___________

other (please explain) % of total replacements___________

B. Source of Poultry Not applicable

Poultry or poultry products must be from poultry that have been under continuous organic management beginning no later than
the second day of life.

1) Do you hatch your own poultry on-farm? Yes No

2) If you purchase your young poultry, supply specific information: Not applicable

FLOCK NUMBER DATE OF PURCHASE AGE AT PURCHASE PROJECTED SOURCE
TYPE OF POULTRY SLAUGHTER OR EGG
PRODUCTION DATE


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

SECTION 5: Livestock Feed and Feed Supplements NOP Rule 205.237, .238(a)(2), .271, .272

Organic livestock producers must provide livestock with a total feed ration that is organically produced and handled, including
pasture and forage. Nonsynthetic materials from any source and synthetic materials included on the National List may be used
as feed additives and supplements. Plastic pellets and feed formulas with urea, manure, or slaughter by-products are not
allowed. Feed supplements or additives in amounts above those needed for adequate nutrition and health maintenance are not
allowed. Save all purchased feed, feed supplement, and feed additive labels and receipts for the inspector.
A. Feed

1) Feed ration table.

STATUS: INGREDIENTS
LIVESTOCK TYPE FEED OR RATION TYPE (HAY, SILAGE, ORGANIC (O)
(SLAUGHTER, GRAIN MIX, ETC.) TRANSITIONAL (T)
CONVENTIONAL (C)
REPLACEMENT DAIRY,
YOUNG STOCK)

Example: poultry Layer ration O Corn, soymeal, oats, hi-calcium limestone,
nutri-balance mix

Example: stocker cattle Baled hay O Mostly alfalfa

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

2) Do you raise any feed on your farm? Yes No

a) If yes, please list:

3) Describe purchased feed: (Enter purchased supplements and additives in section B.) Not applicable

TYPE SOURCES CERTIFIED BY


4) How do you verify that the feed ration is sufficient to meet nutritional requirements?

5) What is your plan for meeting livestock nutritional needs if you have a shortage of organic feed?

B. Feed Supplements and Additives Not applicable

FDA-approved vitamins and trace minerals, including copper sulfate and magnesium sulfate, and electrolytes are allowed feed
additives. Nonmilk products or products from BST treated animals are not allowed. Products produced through genetic
engineering (GE) or with the use of irradiation or sewage sludge or not allowed.

1) List all feed supplements and additives. Not applicable

FEED SUPPLEMENT OR ADDITIVE SOURCE REASON FOR USE


2) Do you use conventional supplemental milk replacers? Yes No

(Note: Conventional milk replacers without antibiotics are allowed for emergency use only until October 21, 2007, and prohibited
thereafter.)

a) If yes, how do you know they do not contain antibiotics and are not made with milk from rBST-treated animals?

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

C. Feed Storage

1) How do you prevent contamination of stored livestock feed?

2) How do you prevent commingling of organic and conventional stored feed? Not applicable

3) How do you prevent or control rodents in organic feed storage areas?

traps glue boards sanitation cats other (please explain)

D. On-farm and Custom Feed Processing

1) Do you process your own feed (mix, grind, roast, extrude, etc.)? Yes No

Please note: If you process organic feed for other producers or handlers, you must submit an Organic Handling Plan and
become certified as an Organic Handler.

a) If yes, is the equipment also used for nonorganic products? Yes No

b) If yes, how is the equipment cleaned prior to processing organic feed to prevent commingling of organic and
nonorganic?

swept out compressed air vacuumed purged other (please explain)

c) If purged, do you maintain records of dates, product, and purged amounts? Yes No

2) Is any of your feed custom processed? Yes No

a) If yes, is the operator certified organic? Yes No

b) If yes, provide the name and contact information of the processor.

SECTION 6: Water NOP Rule 205.201, .239

1) What are your sources of water for livestock use?

on-site well municipal river/creek/pond spring other (specify):

2) Are there immediate contamination threats to your water source(s), i.e. pesticide or fertilizer Yes No
run off, industrial pollution, etc.?

a) If yes, please describe the threat and the steps you are taking to mitigate the threat.

3) Water testing is advisable. What is the date of your last water test for coliform bacteria and nitrates?
(Attach copy if available)

4) If you use additives in the water, list them and state reason for use: No additives used

5) If livestock have access to a river, creek, or pond how do you control erosion and
protect water quality? No access

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

SECTION 7: Living Conditions NOP Rule 205.201, .206(f), .239

Organic livestock operations must establish and maintain livestock living conditions which accommodate the health and natural
behavior of animals. Animal environments must include access to shade, shelter, fresh air, outdoors, exercise areas, and direct
sunlight suitable to the species, production stage, and climate; clean and dry bedding as appropriate to the system; and facility
design which is safe and allows for natural behavior. Manure must be managed such that nutrient recycling is optimized and
soil and water degradation is minimized.

1) Describe housing used: All facilities and outdoor livestock areas should be indicated on attached maps.

TYPE OF HOUSING AND MAP DESIGNATION SIZE (LENGTH X WIDTH) TYPE OF LIVESTOCK HOUSED NUMBER OF ANIMALS
HOUSED


2) Is bedding used? Yes No

a) If yes, is this bedding typically consumed by the livestock? Yes No

b) If so, do you have verification that bedding is organic? Yes No Not applicable

3) How often is housing cleaned out?

4) Describe sanitation or cleaning products used: No sanitation products used

5) Are any fumigants or prohibited pest control agents used in the facility? Yes No

a) If yes, what steps do you take to prevent contamination of feed and livestock?

6) What source(s) of light is used in animal housing?

7) Is day length regulated using artificial light? Yes No

a) If yes, please describe:

8) What outdoor areas other than pasture do animals use?

9) How long are animals indoors (hours per day)? _______spring ______summer _______fall _______winter

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

10) If livestock are routinely denied outdoor access, please describe the
circumstances and/or stages of production involved: Not applicable

11) Describe locations of any treated (with prohibited materials) lumber that may come into contact with livestock:

12) Do you use fencing or other means to limit livestock access to creeks,
ponds, or other water bodies? Yes No Not applicable

13) If you raise your own chicks, answer the following: Not applicable

a) What is the type and size of housing used?

b) What is the approximate square footage per 100 chicks?

c) What bedding material is used?

d) What heating source is employed?

e) Additional relevant details:

SECTION 8: Pasture NOP Rule 205.239(a)(2)

The National Organic Standard requires access to pasture for all ruminants. Pasture must be managed to provide feed value
and maintain or improve soil, water, and vegetative resources. Access to pasture for ruminants must be continuous, with
temporary confinement only for reasons of inclement weather, risk to soil and water quality, requirements of an animal’s stage of
production, or conditions that jeopardize the health and safety of animals.

1) Do you pasture any livestock? Yes No

a) If yes, is pasture provided to ruminant stock? Yes No Not applicable

b) If yes, is pasture provided to non-ruminant stock? Yes No Not applicable

2) Please describe all pastures used by all livestock: All pastures must be indicated on maps and field history forms.

PASTURE ACREAGE STOCKING RATE AND FORAGE WHAT GRAZING SYSTEM IS USED? IS THE PASTURE ALSO
ID LIVESTOCK TYPE MIX MECHANICALLY
HARVESTED?
Rotational Yes
Continuous No
Moveable pens

Rotational Yes
Continuous No
Moveable pens

Rotational Yes
Continuous No
Moveable pens

Rotational Yes
Continuous No
Moveable pens

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Organic System Plan (OSP) Templates for Certifiers