Have something you would like to share with the USDA who makes the rules for organic?? This is your chance. Sorry I just saw this and wanted to be sure you have a little chance to get your 2 cents in if you want
Vicki
Vicki Morrone
Organic Farming Specialist
Center For Regional Food Systems at MSU
480 Wilson Rd. Room 303
East Lansing, MI 48824
517-353-3542/517-282-3557 (cell)
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Www.MichiganOrganic.msu.edu
From: National Organic Coalition <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>>
Reply-To: "[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>" <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>>
Date: Wednesday, September 19, 2012 7:40 PM
To: Vicki Morrone <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>>
Subject: NOC News -- NOSB comments due Monday Sep. 24
[NOC logo#1]National Organic Coalition
www.NationalOrganicCoalition.org<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuJ19xQxcTIQBeCzXC6S9yyHFWVYx6kUV2sy5oUpJBOJP-sDvOGZFwjP1oJOU28Ttjf4L6zn8CwLnRHuAJdoF_RBiNyXbSU8eIcSbFdT389iUsp_HzRISVEM4e48_cWv9vA=>
NOC NEWS
Submit Your Comments to NOSB
September 19, 2012
Dear Vicki,
See these topics below:
USDA NOSB Meeting 10/15 - 10/18
Submit Your Comments to NOSB
You're Invited -- Save the Date - Pre NOSB Meeting October 14
IFOAM Leadership training course
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USDA National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuJi_TYVIJaVREMt29QMjqi0g_PB-drjiE6QzQAZfXXwW_S3hn4rSRFwHpdclS4mx9LXB7GLcwg6l9SJZzmWMtNIW0WeQaBIKQsxoVOdPTaiNB3hAB_66AQhq_ic9QZgkOqRf5gapdEZnr7FcD_7p7wutYs8QZXuLpviWqTcp6X_32YDZG25pbSFjHnXtIliY0iGiz0EeU7G5G_MszR1HE8E>
Monday October 15 - Thursday October 18, 2012
Watch the NOSB website<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuIOBdJVoy210-opHGGc_L4geq5gQ4KwzUP_ONY3QuakVjvvaK4kGze6DyAHwFmWyMFEdmDOctHiqJ8t9dY2kiNu5FdjyXDrOwyxOJcmY892ew2H5URq37n9zf3RA5oBmGw7sZjqcCTVBzUVtBb2n6fvh5KGxnSojGKo0gj3IB8ZG_3thE-Uc_V4dQLY74SHQQmXKykrEXtOtdoK1JgWqbJ0joIbi8iSdlSscyJ0Uf7ueA==> for upcoming
Agenda and comment information
Location: Providence Biltmore<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuKOlInaMDcCGMw43PXF61Fhmiz8GsIpLAcJaq87w-PcM966ADCest1wO_j2jXgRSjX6o5iDFojLRS59EaDgOqfYQkX9Hz-kIc22GtcOxZLhy-fiaPuQsvSqAKAD7hzQAys=>
11 Dorance Street, Providence, RI 02903<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuLHXUTmkP92xBUgWsFgcvsspd_Qm9nULvrcTH9K9wwROgMg5ySG4Ym_hJ29YIuZ1n2rE53opF0LiE-BiyacCJ1pAh_NsaQxqpiwCOPn6l0GhA==>
800-294-7709 <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuLHXUTmkP92xBUgWsFgcvsspd_Qm9nULvrcTH9K9wwROgMg5ySG4Ym_hJ29YIuZ1n2rE53opF0LiE-BiyacCJ1pAh_NsaQxqpiwCOPn6l0GhA==>
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Tell The NATIONAL ORGANIC STANDARDS
BOARD What YOU Think About Organic Topics
Comments due Monday Sep. 24, 2012
The National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) meets twice a year, and has a long list<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuIVWjYkYU1CqBYMVsy1Dd-ALurwBYIbvQSXXm2Ow2l7okt5p4br5bBY_RV7xBp_mCarYbphGAdUsuc4GncuSX-C34-sSrl_QVIxWH2qsNZAW8mNNA7eTwvM93-dG0xGGPGuhW3dTa7qJRCSviM-vtQzo4cnfzmz2CaPVM7cP-veWA==> of topics that they are looking for comments from the public. See the NOSB Agenda with all their proposals here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuIVWjYkYU1CqBYMVsy1Dd-ALurwBYIbvQSXXm2Ow2l7okt5p4br5bBY_RV7xBp_mCarYbphGAdUsuc4GncuSX-C34-sSrl_QVIxWH2qsNZAW8mNNA7eTwvM93-dG0xGGPGuhW3dTa7qJRCSviM-vtQzo4cnfzmz2CaPVM7cP-veWA==>.
To submit comments, you need to use the on-line comment submission form: Regulations.gov <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuI2AFgAibeppJZmBWdFGleGrCBSaTjF_Qklc5_lJfyeJ-jVhUepzpvEVcH7MKg7buNPFkogliB80PpEt3zd2SzV3lR5QzcmqbSUHYDKeJB0d8PDrfQrTfo-gqVCmGPEfgkxnq_MrCCSGsS-FUEUY3w1PmYpST1zYhOd5u3qqNVKYw==> and comment by the end of the day, Monday, September 24, 2012.<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuI2AFgAibeppJZmBWdFGleGrCBSaTjF_Qklc5_lJfyeJ-jVhUepzpvEVcH7MKg7buNPFkogliB80PpEt3zd2SzV3lR5QzcmqbSUHYDKeJB0d8PDrfQrTfo-gqVCmGPEfgkxnq_MrCCSGsS-FUEUY3w1PmYpST1zYhOd5u3qqNVKYw==>
The National Organic Coalition will be submitting comments as well -- while all of ours are not ready for prime time, we do have some hot topics we thought you might be interested in commenting on. Please examine the Petitions in front of the Board<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuIVWjYkYU1CqBYMVsy1Dd-ALurwBYIbvQSXXm2Ow2l7okt5p4br5bBY_RV7xBp_mCarYbphGAdUsuc4GncuSX-C34-sSrl_QVIxWH2qsNZAW8mNNA7eTwvM93-dG0xGGPGuhW3dTa7qJRCSviM-vtQzo4cnfzmz2CaPVM7cP-veWA==> and feel free to adapt our language to your comments if you find it useful.
Conflict of Interest (COI)
The NOSB is made up of representatives of various interests in the organic community, and that is a really good thing. But it does mean that there will always be conflicts of interest. We need a concise, easily implementable COI policy that discloses to the NOSB, the public and to USDA/NOP,relevant conflicts that a board member has on a specific issue. This needs to happen in public, and the NOSB needs to be in charge of this for their Board and for their meetings. The NOP needs to enforce applicable laws and regulations, but the NOSB should adopt and implement a policy of full public disclosure that focuses on the likelihood of direct financial gain to be derived from a decision. This decision cannot happen behind closed doors by the Agency alone.
Synthetic Nutrients in Infant Formula
We oppose adding any of the petitioned synthetic nutrients and preservatives to organic infant formula [they include: Ascorbyl Palmitate, Beta-carotene, Lutein, Lycopene, L-Carnitine, L-Methionine, Nucleotides, and Taurine -- see the Handling Sub-committee proposals here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuIVWjYkYU1CqBYMVsy1Dd-ALurwBYIbvQSXXm2Ow2l7okt5p4br5bBY_RV7xBp_mCarYbphGAdUsuc4GncuSX-C34-sSrl_QVIxWH2qsNZAW8mNNA7eTwvM93-dG0xGGPGuhW3dTa7qJRCSviM-vtQzo4cnfzmz2CaPVM7cP-veWA==>
Nutrients in organic infant formula should be natural and organic. Synthetic preservatives (antioxidants) are prohibited for use in organic and cannot be allowed even if they are synthetic forms of vitamins. Over-fortification of infant formula should be avoided because infants do not have the ability to process excess nutrients-only that fortification required by law should be allowed. The Precautionary Principle should certainly be the overarching principle when it comes to infants (above all else), since small mistakes can have such serious effects on the lives of children through adulthood.
Biodiversity
NOC concurs that both the NOP rule and the Principles of Organic Farming recognize the value of fostering biodiversity in organic production systems. NOC has consistently supported the NOSB's recommendations that have encouraged NOP to implement the existing standards on biodiversity and natural resource conservation.
* Technical Reviews should report on a material's positive effects on biodiversity, as well as negative impacts.
* NOP should add a Guidance or an Instruction to the NOP Handbook and
* NOP should include biodiversity standards in the trainings that NOP provides for accredited certifiers.
* Even though they mainly deal with indoor environments, Handling/Processing operations do have opportunities for addressing biodiversity and natural resource conservation related to landscaping, management of nearby land, pest management, management of wastes and wastewater, air handling, and habitat plantings.
"Inert" ingredients
We applaud the proposal by the crops committee to review all so-called "inerts" (which are not really inert, but may have a wide range of human and ecological effects) used in organic production over the next five years. This plan is excellent and necessary. A specific well laid-out plan such as this can help in highlighting the necessity of increased resources needed by the NOP to help the NOSB complete this work. The NOSB should move forward on these reviews.
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To submit comments, you need to use the on-line comment submission form: Regulations.gov<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuI2AFgAibeppJZmBWdFGleGrCBSaTjF_Qklc5_lJfyeJ-jVhUepzpvEVcH7MKg7buNPFkogliB80PpEt3zd2SzV3lR5QzcmqbSUHYDKeJB0d8PDrfQrTfo-gqVCmGPEfgkxnq_MrCCSGsS-FUEUY3w1PmYpST1zYhOd5u3qqNVKYw==> and comment by the end of the day, Monday, September 24, 2012.
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[NOSB]
You're Invited to NOC pre-NOSB Meeting
Sunday, October 14, 2012, 12:30 -- 6:00 pm
(That's the day before the NOSB)
Topics will include:
Federal Organic Policy update
Farm Bill Updates
AC21 Updates
NOSB and NOP topics
and More!
Location: Providence Biltmore<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuKOlInaMDcCGMw43PXF61Fhmiz8GsIpLAcJaq87w-PcM966ADCest1wO_j2jXgRSjX6o5iDFojLRS59EaDgOqfYQkX9Hz-kIc22GtcOxZLhy-fiaPuQsvSqAKAD7hzQAys=>
11 Dorance Street, Providence, RI 02903<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuLHXUTmkP92xBUgWsFgcvsspd_Qm9nULvrcTH9K9wwROgMg5ySG4Ym_hJ29YIuZ1n2rE53opF0LiE-BiyacCJ1pAh_NsaQxqpiwCOPn6l0GhA==>
800-294-7709 <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuLHXUTmkP92xBUgWsFgcvsspd_Qm9nULvrcTH9K9wwROgMg5ySG4Ym_hJ29YIuZ1n2rE53opF0LiE-BiyacCJ1pAh_NsaQxqpiwCOPn6l0GhA==>
Coffee/Drinks & Snacks are included (Lunch on your own prior to meeting)
Please RSVP to Liana Hoodes via email at:
[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>
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[IFOAM logo]
IFOAM Organic Leadership Course
fosters innovation, connections
The International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) will hold an Organic Leadership Course<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuLOlMBz9OfKMuAqv3ApVM79rCFd7CztUUTnuF-tmlzhvuLuZgb7cn0KJgAz80_o3IOcBSXmcrkTNl2rWuTBtCoyrMvatmFGUcQqeGV9NDkO3GDHnLR73xfO_LNAex1B9Y3Q5uwAoclv0Q==> in North America in 2013. Participants will gain knowledge, skills and a comprehensive understanding of organic principles and the organic sector in North America and globally while they develop leadership skills and deepen their networks of like-minded people. With over 150 hours of comprehensive training and intensive skill-building, this course is ideal for preparing managers and staff to be leaders and spokespeople. Please spread the word about this program and encourage people with leadership potential to apply. If your business would like to reach out to these leaders or provide scholarships for deserving participants, funding opportunities are available. Contact: Katherine DiMatteo<mailto:[log in to unmask]>, the North American regional partner for the course.
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Donate Safely and Securely Through PayPal
PLEASE DONATE TODAY! Your donations will help us to continue our work to ensure organic integrity, and to keep you informed of organic news at USDA, NOP, NOSB, as well as in Congress and the Courts.
[Paypal Button] <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuLY_y8j4yuT1hoZaYdF8U656pjOYOTbBCTNZRGoAhaq5oKyXXeOnfUR54JeyhrQS2PyoRRioRVp1WZSp9ubpl699p_4g-suYB94GhvDrNkKdJUE4SjwO4xoUJ6AyKXYAB6ia1f-Q1J9Sw==>
Please note that Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI- USA), our Fiscal Sponsor, will be the name appearing on your statement.
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Contact Information:
Liana Hoodes
National Organic Coalition National Organic Action Plan
3540 Route 52, Pine Bush, NY 12566
Phone and Fax: 845-744-2304
www.NationalOrganicCoalition.org<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001zovNG5QIsuJ19xQxcTIQBeCzXC6S9yyHFWVYx6kUV2sy5oUpJBOJP-sDvOGZFwjP1oJOU28Ttjf4L6zn8CwLnRHuAJdoF_RBiNyXbSU8eIcSbFdT389iUsp_HzRISVEM4e48_cWv9vA=>
Email: [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>
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