Organic agriculture Overview
Organic agriculture uses natural occurring substances and methods for controlling pests and fertility management, rather than relying on synthetically compounded chemicals. The Idaho Department of Agriculture (ISDA) supports farmers who wish to take advantage of opportunities in this market by administering the Organic Certification program. Information on this page is summarized from the ISDA site, which should be consulted for the most current information. The Idaho Certified Organic Directory is also available from the ISDA.
In order to be sold as Organic, products must meet the provisions of Idaho Organic Food Products Law. Idaho statute (Title 22, Chapter 11) defines “organically grown food products” as those which are “produced without the use of synthetically compounded fertilizers, pesticides, or growth regulators for a period not less than thirty-six (36) months prior to harvest.” The Idaho organic law includes all agricultural, horticultural, viticulture and vegetable products of the soil and apiary and apiary products, as well as poultry and poultry products, livestock and livestock products, dairy products and aquaculture products.
There is a “transitional” status for crops grown with approved organic materials and practices for at least 12 months, but for less than the 36 months required for “certified” approval. Transitional products must meet all other criteria for organic certification except that no prohibited substances can be used for 12 months prior to the appearance of flower buds for perennial crops and prior to seeding or transplanting for annual or 2 year crops and throughout the entire growing season.
