Tilth Alliance studies farmer perceptions of organic farming in Washington State
Farmers cited administrative burdens, record-keeping demands, and upfront costs as barriers to getting organic certification.
The number of organic farms in Washington state has decreased in recent years. Tilth Alliance is studying ways to encourage farmers to seek certification.
Tilth Alliance released a study “Farmers’ Perceptions of Organic Certification in Washington State” to get a snapshot of farmers, both organic and conventional, thoughts about organic farming and attaining certification.
The study is about figuring out why organic growth in Washington State hasn’t kept up with demand while organic farming nationally has seen growth, said Brahmi Pugh, Farm Program Director for Tilth Alliance.
Pugh highlighted the benefits of getting a farm certified organic.
“Organic seal is very highly regulated and highly credible certification that consumers can trust,” Pugh said. Organic products capture a price premium, provides access to new markets, and forces a farmer to become more diligent in their record-keeping.