Organic Farming Information
Dr. Kathleen Delate, Assistant Professor
Iowa State University
Depts. of Horticulture/Agronomy
106 Horticulture Hall
Ames, Iowa 50011
Phone: 515-294-7069
FAX: 515-294-0730
Email: kdelate@iastate.edu
General Definition of Organic
Organic agriculture uses naturally-occurring amendments for fertilization and pest management. Fields must be free from synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for a minimum of three years. Livestock must be fed organically-grown feed and pastures. The use of synthetic hormones and antibiotics is disallowed. Organic foods are processed, packaged and distributed without the use of synthetic pesticides, artificial preservatives or irradiation.
Laws Governing Organic Production
U.S. Organic Food Production Act-1990 (Rules to be determined in 1998)
Iowa Organic Food Production Act-1988 (Code of Iowa, Chapt. 190B)
Law to be rewritten in 1998 to establish a State of Iowa Organic Certification Program (in conjunction with the following private certifying agencies in the state).
Organic Certifying Agencies-Iowa
|
Buyers of Organic Grains
|
Buyers of Organic
Produce/Herbs
|