By George Kuepper
NCAT Agriculture Specialist
January 2002
The term organic farming describes systems that work to mimic and optimize natural processes for the production of crops. Organic growers utilize a wide range of cultural practices and natural inputs to
manage crops in a manner they consider safe for the environment and the consumer. Synthetic pesticides and standard commercial fertilizers are not consistent with the organic approach and are prohibited. For more information on organic farming and the current regulations that govern it, please ask for ATTRA is Overview of Organic Crop Production and Organic Certification and the National Organic
Program publications.