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Getting Certified What does it mean to "get certified"? At its simplest, it means that you've gotten confirmation from an approved third party (a certifying agency) that your farm operation meets all of the production, record-keeping, handling, storage and labeling requirements demanded by the laws of the country where you will produce or sell your product. For someone new to organic farming, the process may seem daunting: A stranger will actually be inspecting your farm. You'll have new types of recording keeping to deal with. There's a set of rules established that you must follow. How do you get a handle on all of this? Fortunately, there are wealth of resources available that clearly outline the basic requirements of certification for crop farms and livestock operations. You'll find the best of those listed in the pages that follow. The certifier you choose will also be able to help steer you to resources. And there are hundreds of organizations around the country dedicated to supporting farmers interested in transitioning to organic. You will not be alone in this process. In the pages that follow, we'll point you to resources that will help you choose the certifier that's right for you, understand the record-keeping and documentation requirements, and prepare for your farm inspection. Basic Requirements | Choosing a Certifying Agency | Fees | Finding Funding International Certification | Record Keeping and Forms | Your Inspection Your Organic System Plan | Regulatory Issues
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