Launch of the new Northwest Transition to Organic Partnership Program
Now Seeking Mentors We are actively seeking experienced and knowledgeable certified organic producers who are passionate about organic production and interested in sharing their expertise with others to serve as mentors for the NW TOPP Mentorship Program.
As a mentor, you will have the opportunity to guide and support producers who are transitioning to organic, providing them with valuable insights into organic production and certification and teaching industry best practices. By becoming a mentor, you will play a crucial role in helping new organic producers succeed and contribute to the growth of the organic movement in our region. This is a paid mentorship opportunity, including paid training, mentorship time, and travel time! Learn more about being a NW TOPP mentor here: Mentor Job Description If you are interested in becoming a mentor in the NW TOPP Mentorship Program, we would love to hear from you! Please reply to this email or contact us at TOPP@tilth.org or 541-286-7228.
Do You Know a Producer Transitioning to Organic? We also welcome producers who are currently transitioning to organic production and seeking guidance as mentees. Mentees will have the opportunity to learn best practices of certified organic producers, receive guidance on organic certification requirements, and gain valuable insights on organic production techniques.
Transition to Organic Partnership Program The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) is a new program under the USDA’s Organic Transition Initiative that will provide mentorship, technical assistance, and wrap-around support for transitioning and existing organic producers. TOPP is investing up to $100 million over five years and through partnerships across the country to support certified organic and transitioning producers.
NW TOPP Mentorship Program
As part of TOPP, we are developing a new mentorship program for certified organic producers to mentor transitioning producers in the northwest region states (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming). The mentorship program is offering a paid mentoring opportunity for experienced organic producers to support producers who are transitioning to organic production. The program will create a strong network of support and knowledge exchange among organic producers in the northwest region, fostering a sense of community and collaboration within the organic production community.