Resources

Getting certified organic involves selecting a USDA-accredited certifying agent, developing an organic system plan, and completing an inspection. The resources below will help you navigate the certification process and find the right certifier for your operation. Download our 2026 Arkansas Organic Certification Guide.

1. Determine if Certification is Right for You

• Is Organic Certification Right for Your Operation? – A summary of the certification process describing benefits and challenges
• The Road to Organic Certification – Interactive choose-your-own-adventure video that walks through applications, organic system plans, and the roles of certifiers and inspectors
• Organic Certification Made Simple – Multi-part video series where farmers discuss their firsthand certification experiences

2. Find a Certifier

There are 18 USDA-accredited certification agencies currently serving Arkansas farmers. The table below summarizes certifiers with the most Arkansas operations. View our complete Arkansas Organic Certifiers Guide for detailed contact information, application links, and fee schedules for all certifiers.

Data from the USDA Organic Integrity Database, November 2025.

Choosing a certifier? Consider their experience with your operation type, fee structure, customer service reputation, and ability to provide timely inspections in Arkansas. These resources can help:

• How to Pick a Certifier – Tips for comparing certifiers and getting the most value
• USDA Organic Certifier Locator – Search accredited certifiers by location and scope

3. Create your Organic System Plan (OSP)

4. Submit your Application

Financial Assistance

• Organic Certification Cost Share Program – Certified operations may receive up to 75% of their certification costs, up to $750 per scope. Contact your local FSA office for current deadlines and application details.
• Organic Transition Initiative – USDA’s multi-agency effort supporting organic transition, with programs from AMS, NRCS, and RMA