[This action alert is now closed]
Application Deadline is June 17
Two positions for organic farmers are among the five vacancies the USDA is seeking to fill on the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). Appointees will serve a five-year term beginning in January 2016. Vacancies for the 15-member organic advisory board must represent a particular constituency as identified by Congress, and the current openings are for:
- Two (2) organic farmers/ producers,
- Two (2) public or consumer interest group representatives, and
- One (1) USDA accredited certifying agent.
The NOSB is responsible for determining allowed and prohibited substances/inputs used in organic agricultural production and food, as well as advising the USDA Secretary on organic regulations and policy.
If you are interested in applying for one of the vacancies, click here for detailed instructions. Individuals can nominate themselves for one of the appropriate slots. Nominations must be postmarked by June 17.
In the past, widespread abuse during the Bush and Obama administrations led to the appointment of corporate agribusiness representatives to positions that were designated for farmers or consumer advocates. Cornucopia has been especially critical of several recent appointments.
Because of this history, Cornucopia is appealing to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to respect the will of Congress and to make the nomination process public so that the very best candidates can be appointed. Transparency and openness will help the organic community advise the USDA in the selection process. Cornucopia has again asked that the department publicly release the list of all applicants to encourage public input.
Please feel free to contact us at The Cornucopia Institute if you’re considering applying for one of these slots. We can offer insights and advice to help improve your application.
It’s imperative that we have truly qualified and independent stakeholders in the organic community helping guide the future of this movement and industry. We hope you will consider this important opportunity fo
