CT NOFA Seeks Farmer Feedback Regarding ‘Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) Rule’

The USDA Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) Rule, which took full effect on March 19, 2024, significantly expanded who must be certified organic – now requiring most businesses that handle, aggregate, distribute, broker, import, or facilitate sales of organic products to obtain certification by March 2026.

With the aim of providing technical support to farm businesses, CT NOFA is reaching out to better understand how the new Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) Rule affects Connecticut-based organic handlers, co-packers, and processors—and how we can support you. The survey takes approximately 3-5 minutes to complete.

CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE THE SURVEY

CT NOFA and New CT Farmer’s Alliance are conducting this short survey to understand how Connecticut organizations are handling certified organic products and assess interest in a collaborative mentorship cohort through the USDA’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), led by CT NOFA. You can read about Vermont’s successful model, where seven food hubs achieved certification together through mentorship and peer support.

This survey is part of Connecticut NOFA’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), funded by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service National Organic Program. We are committed to helping Connecticut organizations understand and comply with the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rule requirements.