Transition to Organics (NWTOPP), general interest, partner spotlight & events
Organic Certification: A Farmer's Perspective from the Heart of Alaska
By Leah Moss, Communications and Outreach Director, AFPC
Mike Emers of Rosie Creek Farm Photo Credit: Shipe Shots
Nestled at the confluence of Rosie Creek and the Tanana River, just outside Fairbanks, Rosie Creek Farm stands as a testament to the power of organic farming. AFPC sat down with Mike Emers, a seasoned farmer who’s passionate about organic agriculture. His insights are both inspiring and eye-opening.
Why Organic Matters: More Than Just a Label
Mike’s journey into organic certification began with a simple yet powerful motivation. “There’s a reason why there’s an organic certification,” he explained. “Everybody was calling themselves organic, and nobody knew what it meant.” It’s not just about a sticker – it’s about maintaining real standards that protect both consumers and the environment.
For Mike, organic certification is “the right way to farm.” He believes it’s not just a choice, but a commitment to the earth. “It’s the right thing for the earth,” he says, “and it’s not going to be that much more expensive.”
Photo Credit: Shipe Shots
The Real Benefits of Going Organic
Organic certification isn’t just about feeling good; it’s good for business, too. Mike found that being certified organic attracted customers who cared about quality. Restaurants and farmers market customers specifically sought out their certified organic products. As he put it, “A lot of our customers shopped at our stand just because we were organic.”
Good News for Aspiring Organic Farmers!
Good News for Aspiring Organic Farmers!If Mike’s story has inspired you, there’s great news! The Northwest TOPP (Transition to Organic Partnership Program) offers mentorship programs for producers interested in organic certification. These programs can help them navigate the certification process, which Mike describes as “mostly a documentation and paper exercise” – something that sounds intimidating but is quite manageable with the right support.
A Word of Encouragement
Mike’s final advice? “Market your story and what you’re growing appropriately.” Organic certification is about more than just following rules, it’s about telling the story of your farm, your commitment to the land, and your dedication to producing high-quality, sustainable food.
For producers in Alaska and the Northwest, now is the perfect time to explore organic certification. With support programs like Northwest TOPP and inspiring farmers like Mike Emers leading the way, the path to organic farming has never been more accessible.
Rosie Creek Farm proves that with passion, commitment, and the right support, organic farming isn’t just a dream – it’s a viable, meaningful way of life.
Photo Credit: Shipe Shots
Ready to start your organic journey? If you want to be in the program as a mentee/transitioning producer, NW TOPP will look for mentors if they don’t already have one available. Reach out to Northwest TOPP topp@tilth.org and take the first step towards certified organic success!
