New Organic Research Hub Launched by OFRF to Aid Farmers Across the Nation

OFRF Launches Innovative Organic Research Hub to Empower Farmers

In a significant step aimed at revolutionizing organic farming practices, the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) has recently unveiled the Organic Research Hub. This pioneering online platform has been designed specifically for organic and transitioning farmers, offering them streamlined access to science-backed tools and resources that are crucial for overcoming various production challenges.

Located at organicresearchhub.org, the Hub serves as a centralized repository where users can conveniently search for relevant information on organic farming. With a focus on providing practical and trustworthy solutions, the platform hosts a vast array of resources, including factsheets, research summaries, webinars, technical guides, and videos sourced from renowned agricultural institutions and organic organizations. Notably, farmers can also find close to 200 final reports from research projects funded by OFRF, thereby making decades of research readily available in one place.

Dr. Heather Estrada, Ofrf’s senior scientist and the architect behind the Hub, commented on its purpose, stating, "The Organic Research Hub was created to address the urgent needs of farmers who often struggle with accessing relevant resources. Time is precious for them, and they should not have to sift through outdated or irrelevant information."

Farmers using the platform can utilize various filters, allowing them to search by keyword, crop type, topic area, region, or resource type. Additionally, the online tool also includes a unique feature—an Organic Extension Directory. This directory serves to connect farmers with local agricultural experts for assistance.

An Ohio-based organic dairy farmer, Jordan Settlage, shared his experience with the Hub. He remarked, "I was in the process of adjusting our compost management strategies and had some queries. Within moments, I found exactly what I needed from credible sources. It’s a huge advantage for making informed decisions about our farm operations."

Organic farming is becoming increasingly significant in the U.S., contributing to over 6% of total food sales and paving the way for a growing consumer base interested in sustainability and chemical-free practices. However, the public funding for research in organic agriculture remains alarmingly low, receiving less than 2% of USDA research funds. This gap presents a formidable challenge for many organic farmers who often have to innovate independently. The launch of the Organic Research Hub directly addresses this lack by providing equitable access to essential technical knowledge that farmers require to enhance soil health, adopt regenerative techniques, and fortify climate resilience.

Brise Tencer, the Executive Director of OFRF, emphasized the importance of this resource, stating, "For too long, organic farmers have been isolated in their information-seeking endeavors, often lacking institutional support. The Hub provides trustworthy, research-backed information directly to farmers, which is crucial for those in the industry. However, any farmer interested in sustainable, non-chemical practices will benefit from this platform."

The Organic Research Hub aggregates contributions from various organizations, including SARE, The Organic Center, and ATTRA, along with numerous research institutions. The platform will continue to evolve with the addition of more content in an effort to serve the community better.

To explore the capabilities of the Organic Research Hub and discover the wealth of information it offers, visit organicresearchhub.org.

About OFRF

The Organic Farming Research Foundation is committed to enhancing and promoting organic farming systems. Through research, education, and policy advocacy, OFRF aims to increase the number of farmers and land engaged in organic practices. For further details on their initiatives, visit www.ofrf.org.