USDA creates Internet organic resource center

A new Web page set up by the U.S. Department of Agriculture is designed to be a one-stop shop for information on its organic programs and services.

The page — http://tinyurl.com/OrganicResources — includes information for growers, handlers, certifiers and consumers. It was created as part of the USDA’s efforts to incorporate the needs of the organic sector into its programs, as directed by agriculture secretary Tom Vilsack earlier this year, according to a news release.

Information on flexible microloans and other financial resources for organic growers is available on the new Web page, as well as organic price reports, cost/revenue comparisons and other economic and market data.

Importers and exporters of organics can also find information on the Web page. The page also has details about improved crop insurance options for organic growers.

The Web page also provides a link to file complaints about products suspected to be improperly marketed as organic.

http://www.thegrower.com/news/USDA-creates-virtual-organic-resource-center-237312351.html