Clemson to emphasize the basics of organic certification

by Denise Attaway

Are you a South Carolina farmer or someone who wants to learn about organic certification?

If so, the Clemson University Department of Plant Industry’s Organic Certification Program, in partnership with the Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program, invites you to attend the Organic Certification Basics class.

Registration is underway for this class, slated for Sept. 11, Sept. 17 and Sept. 19.

What to expect

Learn about organic certification and tools for new and transitioning organic farmers.
Learn about inspections and record keeping requirements by participating in a mock inspection.

This event is targeted toward agricultural service providers, farmers or gardeners interested in organic certification or in transitioning to organic production. But anyone who is interested is encouraged to register.

Topics include

Organic System Plans (OSP)
Organic regulations
Organic crop practices
Addressing misconceptions about organic certification
Inspections
Record keeping requirements

Please bring a laptop or pen and paper to take notes.

Event details

Cost: Free
Dates:
- Classroom Instruction
  - Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024
    - Phillips Market Center, 117 Ballard Court, West Columbia, SC 29172
- Lower State Inspection
  - Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024
    - Clemson University Coastal REC, 2865 Savannah Highway, Charleston, SC 29414
- Upstate Inspection
  - Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024
    - Clemson University Organic Research Center, 101 Ag Services Center, Clemson, SC 29634
Contacts:
- Gavin Berry, organic@clemson.edu, or (864) 646-2129, or
- Catherine McGuinn, cpmcgui@clemson.edu, or (864) 646-2121