Process highlights for new applications
- Not Listed Cost structure
Fees set by: Fees are set for each type of operation and the time actually spent by the inspector at the farm/operation. Membership in the Organic Growers of Michigan result in lower certification fees. Application fee:
$10
Annual Fee:
Minimum:
$300
Maximum:
$525
Overall charges statement:
Certification Application Packet - $10
Processor/Handler Certifications - $525
Initial Grower Certification - OGM member - $400
- non-OGM member- $500
Annual recertification - OGM member - $300
- non-OGM member - $350
Annual recertification submitted after 4/15 - $50 surcharge
Inspections that take more than two hours of inspector time on-site, regardless of type of operation - $50 per hour
Fees published: Yes
Format:
Posted on website, Printed outlines, Newsletter
Customer can estimate fees from publication: Yes
Other accreditation groups recognized:
None Listed
Professional organizations
- Not Listed Newsletter/Periodical: Michigan Connections, Michigan Organic Connections - both published periodically (about quarterly)
Publications
Eating Organically - a directory of organic producers and businesses
What is Organic? A practical guide to understanding organic foods in Michigan
Choose Local Organic Food
Conferences/Events
Annual Organic Conference - as a part of the Agricultural and Natural Resources Week at MSU each spring
Certification workshops around the state with funding from grants
Various farm tours and seminars around the state
Other Services
"Certified organic" marketing supplies (such as signage, stickers, twist-ties, etc.)
Marketing information (such as market or buyer listings)
Other Resource Referrals
- None Listed Other - Not Listed
Cooperating partners?
Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance, Inc. Sister organization created by OGM in the early 80's to be the educational and grant writing arm of the Michigan organic movement. Several members serve on both Boards. OGM is the grower consultation, certification, cooperative buying component. MOFFA is the public education and seminar/conference sponsor.
Full-time receptionist? No
Response Time Commitment:
Within one business day
Member records available by email? No Member able to complete/access records online? No
Transparency steps for farmers/public?
All OGM meetings are open to the membership; all files are open to the grower/processor/handler concerned; oversight by the OGM Executive Committee (none of whom may be certified by OGM while they serve in that capacity).
Farmer Friendly Services
Website
Newsletter
Membership meetings
Top Five Strengths
Knowledgeable inspectors
Staff that are dedicated to the highest values and philosophy of organic living.
Fees are kept low thanks to hours of volunteer time given by OGM members.
Local people who know the farmers and farming conditions of this area.
A non-profit orientation without any check-off fees.
Inspectors used in 2002: 9 Inspector employment status:
Independent
Qualifications/training for inspectors:
They must be experienced growers, OGM members and trained by IOIA and/or OGM.
Most recent update by certifier: 01/31/04
Disclaimer: The certifier profile data shown on this site is for informational purposes, based on data submitted by participating certifiers. The Rodale Institute® does not specifically endorse any certifier, nor guarantee the accuracy of the information. Please contact certifiers to verify information that is critical to decision-making. If you have comments about any of the listings, or listings to add, please contact our guide coordinator
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