Hot Topic Session: From the Ground Up

This fall, the NOSB reversed its 2010 ruling to not allow soilless, hydroponic crops to be certified organic. A large majority of organic farmers, consumers and advocates disagree with this decision because they believe that building soils quality is the foundation of organic agriculture. Others feel that hydroponics are acceptable and some agencies have been certifying such operations for many years. Why is there so much conflict on core issues such as this and how can we regain our common positions to save the organic program and producers' income?  This workshop seeks to build a new beginning by providing the opportunity to share concerns and discuss how, together, we can maintain the integrity of the organic label.