"We should be encouraging farmers to use resource-smart techniques"

In response to Mr. Perdue's confirmation and in light of last week's National Organic Standards Board meeting discussion regarding hydroponic and aquaponic organic certification, Marianne Cufone, executive director of the Recirculating Farms Coalition, issued the following statement:

"Now that our new Secretary of Agriculture has been sworn in to a very pro-industry administration, we hope that his first accomplishments will include supporting expansion and development of farming in the United States, by making sure hydroponic and aquaponic farms are able to keep their hard-earned USDA Organic certification.

"Recirculating farms, like many hydroponic and aquaponic operations, can use less water, space and energy than most traditional in-ground and raised-bed growing methods using dirt. Many facilities already meet or can even exceed existing organic regulations. Allowing these farms to keep their USDA Organic certification would send a powerful message that the USDA values sustainability and innovation.

Additionally, USDA regularly says it wants to encourage new farmers and engage more young people in growing. Hydroponics and aquaponics do both. Though these techniques are centuries old, there are new twists making them exciting and innovative. We should be encouraging farmers to use resource-smart techniques and invest time and money to be USDA Organic, not discourage them by taking away the possibility of certification."

For more information:
www.recirculatingfarms.org
www.betterfishfarming.org