Wisconsin continues to be a leader in organic production
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MADISON – The survey says that Wisconsin continues to be a leader in organic production. Wisconsin ranks second in for the total number of organic farms with 1,228 farms. That is about nine percent of the nation’s total number of organic farms.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), in conjunction with USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA), conducted the 2014 Organic Survey. This was the third time the survey has been completed.
“I am proud that Wisconsin is known for its leadership in organic production and is able to provide these products for consumers,” said Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Secretary Ben Brancel. “When people think of a destination to buy and grow organic agricultural goods, I am confident they should think of Wisconsin.”
The 2014 Organic Survey was a complete inventory of all known organic farmers including those that are certified, those exempt from certification for grossing sales less than $5,000 annually from organic sales and those in transition. Survey questions included production results, practices and expenses as well as marketing practices and value-added activities.
Wisconsin maintained its leadership in organic livestock production. The state ranks first in the nation in the number of organic farms with milk cows, beef, hogs and pigs, sheep, chickens and turkeys.
Wisconsin ranks fifth in the nation for organic sales, a value of $201 million. Wisconsin’s organic sales are up 51% since 2008.
“I am encouraged by the continued interest and growth in organic agriculture,” added Brancel. “What makes Wisconsin agriculture strong is our diversity in our livestock and crop production. It is important to recognize that many different production methods and farm management techniques can be successful in the marketplace.”
DATCP works to build the capacity and expertise of Wisconsin organic food businesses and organizations in order to meet consumer demand. Agency staff coordinate the Organic Advisory Council, partner with other agencies to support research and educational programs, and administer the federal Organic Certification Cost Share program.
“I encourage those involved in organic production or those considering an opportunity in organic agriculture to reach out to our department,” concluded Brancel. “Our team can provide that one-on-one assistance to answer questions and access available resources.”
Visit www.agcensus.usda.gov for the complete survey results. To learn more about DATCP’s resources for the organic industry, check out the website at http://datcp.wi.gov/Farms/Organic_Farming.
