About Organic Farming

Steps to certification - The organic inspector

  1. During the inspection, the inspector:
    • verifies the information as stated on the questionnaire
    • physically inspects the fields, buildings and equipment
    • assesses contamination risks
    • reviews production and sales records
    • fills out Certification Agency paperwork
    • gathers information to get a complete picture of the operation.
  2. At the same time, the inspector:
    • evaluates the condition of the crops
    • the fertility management program
    • pest and weed management strategies
    • record keeping system
    • the producers' understanding and commitment to organic standards and overall compliance with the Standards.
    • Verifies maps and crop plans
    • Tours fields: condition of crops, soil tilth, weeds, pests, biodiversity, conservation, crop rotation, adjoining land use, buffer strips
    • Inspects buildings and equipment: type and condition, pest and weed control, co-mingling potential
    • Reviews water source, tests on file, if applicable
    • Reviews and assesses audit trail records
    • Completes Certification Agency paperwork
    • Educates the farmer/producer on Certification Agency policies
    • Asks a lot of questions!!!
  3. Following the inspection, the inspector writes a report based on all information gathered. They may need to get additional information from you or other sources (such as a pest control service, if used).
  4. The inspector does not make the certification decision.
  5. The inspection report, the questionnaire and all associated paperwork are sent to the Certification Agency.