The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has transmitted a report from the Hydroponic and Aquaponic Task Force to the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB).
In September of 2015, the AMS National Organic Program appointed 16 members to the task force to explore hydroponic and aquaponic production practices and their alignment with the USDA organic regulations. The task force was charged with preparing a report to inform the NOSB as it determines the best path forward on hydroponic and aquaponic production systems.
The NOSB is a Federal Advisory Committee whose 15 members represent the entire organic community. NOSB members recommend whether substances should be allowed or prohibited in organic production or handling, assist in developing standards for substances to be used in organic production, and advise the Secretary of Agriculture on other aspects of the organic regulations.
Stakeholders can view the Hydroponic and Aquaponic Task Force Report (pdf) on the AMS website. The public may provide comments to the NOSB when the public comment period for the November NOSB meeting opens later this month. There will be additional opportunities for comment after the NOSB develops a proposal on hydroponic and aquaponic production practices.