If you are new to OEFFA Certification, whether you have been certified by another agency or this is your first time applying for certification, this page will explain the process, fees, and deadlines, and will link you to the forms you will need. We have also provided links to other information that may be helpful.
The Certification Process
Applicants submit an annual application each spring with payment. The Inspection Coordinator assigns an independent third party inspector to visit and inspect the farm, ask questions, and note areas of special concern. The inspector then forwards his or her report to the Certification staff, who review all documents and grant or deny certification, or request further information.
This process takes approximately 90-120 days from the time your completed application and payment are received. Incomplete applications and delays in scheduling the inspector's visit may delay the process significantly.
OEFFA Certification will only be accepting new applications from operations in Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. If you are not from these states, please visit the National Organic Program website to find a certifier in your area.
First time Grower/Producer Fees:
(FEES DUE WITH YOUR APPLICATION)
| Early Bird: | $ 675 (April 15) |
| Standard | $ 725 (May 15) |
| Late (Final Deadline) | $ 825 (June 15) |
Attention Transitional Growers: Prevent problems before they happen! OEFFA Organic Certification will review an OSP during your transition for $150. We will provide feedback on any items that appear to be noncompliant with the NOP. The $150 fee can be applied to your first year's certification fees with OEFFA.
Deadlines: *May 15, 2010*
A Late fee of $100 will be assessed if your application is postmarked between May 16 and June 15, 2010. No new applications will be accepted after June 15, 2010.
New Applicant Forms
NOP Standards
Download OEFFA Production Standards
OEFFA Certification Policies & Procedures
Download OEFFA Certification Policies & Procedures
OEFFA ORGANIC SYSTEM PLAN FOR PRODUCERS
This is the main application form for new operations. All applicants except producers/handlers must complete this form.
This long form will only need to be completed every three years. Operations include crops, pasture, a greenhouse, mushrooms, or maple syrup.
Download OEFFA Organic System Plan for Producers
OEFFA Livestock Organic System Plan
This is the main application for all kinds of livestock, including dairy.
This will be filed yearly. This form accompanies the Organic System Plan.
Download OEFFA Livestock Organic System Plan
OEFFA On-Farm Handling Organic System Plan
This form is to be used when you are further processing or handling your crops or livestock and include other certified items in your product; for example, you are roasting your seed for feed and buying from others also, or you are processing your maple sap into syrup. Contact the office if you have questions about whether you would need to complete this form. This form is filed yearly and accompanies the Organic System Plan.
Download OEFFA On-Farm Handling Organic System Plan
LINKS TO RESOURCES
Additional sources of information
ANOTHER RESOURCE
Under the National Organic Program Standards, the Certification staff is not allowed to "consult" but only to enforce the Standards. Staff from OEFFA Education are happy to answer questions about organics, transitioning, and sustainable agricultural practices. They can be reached by calling (614) 421-2022 or emailing them.
