Organics
Senator Leahy became involved in the organic movement well over a decade ago. Farmers in Vermont were confident there was a significant market for high quality farm goods produced in an environmentally friendly way. They were right. The organic industry is the fastest growing sector of American agriculture, and is especially strong in Vermont.
But this organic revolution was only possible if "organic" meant something. That is why Senator Leahy wrote the Organic Foods Production Act, which passed as part of the 1990 Farm Bill, creating strong and credible standards so that consumers know that when they buy something "organic," it is organic.
In the 2008 Farm Bill, Senator Leahy helped to make the organic option a reality for more farmers in Vermont. This is good for small farms all over the country and is a solid investment in Vermont's economy. Senator Leahy looks forward to making additional improvements in the 2012 Farm Bill to benefit organic farmers and those looking to convert their operations.
On September 15, 2010, Senator Leahy led a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing commemorating the 20th anniversary of the National Organic Law. The law, which was authored by Senator Leahy in 1990, established national standards for organic agriculture. Above, Senator Leahy is pictured with two witnesses from the hearing; Will Harris, President of the Georgia Organics Board of Directors; and Regina Beidler of Randolph Center, VT. Ms. Beidler is a member of the Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative and the Board of Directors of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont.
On March 25, 2009, the Organic Trade Association (OTA) established an award in Senator Leahy's name. The Patrick J. Leahy Organic Award will be given to individuals who show leadership, dedication and overall excellence in furthering the development of organic agriculture. From left to right: Bob Gray; Julia Sabin, President of the OTA Board; and Christine Bushway, OTA Executive Director.
Related Information
Agriculture, Nutrition and Dairy
Related News
- USDA’s Acceptance Of Audit Findings Helps Clean The Slate For 20-Year-Old Organic Standards And Labeling Program To Advance To Next Level, March 18, 2010
- New Organic Program Rule On Livestock Access To Pasture Is True To Producers And Consumers And Faithful To The Leahy Organics Law, February 12, 2010
- Leahy Raises MILC, Organic, Rural Broadband Issues in Meeting with USDA Nominee Vilsack, January 7, 2009