Farmers Pledge Program

The Farmer’s Pledge^TM  is a commitment to a broad set of principles that go far beyond the National Organic Program by addressing labor issues, community values and marketing.  It is a commitment that either certified organic farmers or uncertified organic farmers can make to their customers and neighbors. It  is not a substitute for certification, which is a service whereby a third party scrutinizes a detailed farm plan, inspects the farm, and then has the paper records of the farm reviewed by qualified peers for compliance with the regulations set forth in the NOP. 

We believe that the heart of sustainable agriculture is in the integrity of the farmer.  We are gladdened that both uncertified and certified organic farmers have recognized this principle by signing The Farmer’s Pledge^TM.   There are 110 farms currently registered for The Farmer’s Pledge^TM.

Since its introduction in 2003, The Farmer’s Pledge^TM  continues to grow with several organizations and organic certifiers from other states inquiring about adopting The Farmer’s Pledge^TM  as an alternative program.  We hope the number of farms that sign The Farmer’s Pledge^TM  will continue to grow within and outside of New York State. 

A Special Thanks To:
Mark Dunau, John Gorzynski, Wes Gillingham, Elizabeth Henderson, Karl North, Richard Mandelbaum, Michael Sligh and others, for their help in crafting the ideas contained in the Pledge.