Frequently Asked Questions - Organic Certification

Frequently asked questions about organic certification.

Do I have to become certified organic in order to sell my products as "organic'?

What is an "exempt" operation?

How do I apply for organic certification in New Hampshire?

How often do I need to submit an Organic System Plan (OSP)?

What are the costs associated with the NHDAMF certification program?

Where do I obtain copies of the application (OSP) forms and regulations?

Do I have to be inspected every year?

Do I have to become certified organic in order to sell my products as "organic'?

The National Organic Program (NOP) allows the use of the terms "100% organic," "organic," or "made with organic (specified ingredients or food group(s)) on those products which are produced in accordance with the organic regulations. Producers who wish to label there products as such, must be enrolled in an organic certification program, unless, their operations are considered "exempt" per NOP Section 205.101.

What is an "exempt" operation?

A production or handling operation that sells agricultural products as "organic" but whose gross agricultural income from organic sales totals $5,000 or less annually is exempt from certification under Subpart E of the NOP regulations, but must comply with the applicable organic production and handling requirements of Subpart C of the NOP regulations, and labeling requirements of NOP Section 205.310.

How do I apply for organic certification in New Hampshire

You must complete the applicable organic system plan (OSP) documents, available in pdf format on the NHDAMF website, for the type of organic production you wish to certify. NHDAMF is NOP accredited to conduct certifications for crops, livestock, handling, and wild crops.

How often do I need to submit an organic system plan (OSP)?

Annually. New Hampshire applicants must submit an OSP to this agency by the following deadlines: for crop production the deadline is March 1st of each year; for maple products the deadline is February 1st of each year. Other types of organic production shall also submit an OSP annually, at least one month prior to their initial effective certification date. For example, if a dairy farms' effective date of certification is April 4, 2013, then the renewal application should be submitted by March 4, 2014.

What are the costs associated with the NHDAMF certification program?

For crops and livestock, there is a non-refundable certification fee of $100. The inspection fees associated with each type of certification production can be found in Table 911-1 Inspection fees for Organic Maple, Horticultural and Agronomic Crops, and Greenhouse Production and in Table 911-2 Inspection Fees for Organic Livestock on page VII of the state organic regulations. Note: The minimum amount required to be paid is $150.

For organic processors and handlers, a non-refundable certification fee of $250 shall be paid. Each additional facility shall pay a non-refundable certification fee of $100. For on-farm processors, a non-refundable certification fee of $50 shall be paid.

The inspection fee for organic processors and handlers is calculated on a per hour basis of $35/hr. Travel expenses to and from the applicant's facility shall be calculated at a rate of $0.55 per mile.

Where do I obtain copies of the application (OSP) forms and regulations?

Certification application forms can be accessed on the Division's webpage on the Organic page. The forms are in pdf format, which allows completion online. However, the form can be printed out and completed by hand. All forms must be submitted complete and signed by the applicant.

Do I have to be inspected every year?

Yes. Annual site evaluations are conducted to verify compliance to the NOP organic regulations. The visits are scheduled during the normal production season of the crops to be certified. Please note that unannounced visits may also be conducted to verify continued compliance to the NOP.