2009 Press Releases
Organic Trade Association members seek NOSB positions
For immediate release
Contact: Barbara Haumann
(413-376-1220; bhaumann@ota.com)
GREENFIELD, Mass. (June 23, 2009)— The Organic Trade Association (OTA) is pleased that representatives of four of its member companies are seeking seats on the National Organic Standards Board, and is encouraging others to also submit applications.
“As the trade association for organic agricultural products in North America, OTA believes its members have expertise that would prove invaluable to this advisory body that helps clarify and strengthen national organic standards in the United States,” said Christine Bushway, OTA’s Executive Director.
NOSB, which makes recommendation to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) National Organic Program, consists of 15 volunteer positions. USDA currently is seeking nominations of candidates to fill five upcoming vacancies on the board. Nominations are being sought for two organic producer positions, one retailer position, one organic handler position, and an environmentalist seat. Terms are for five years.
OTA members who have already announced their intentions to apply include:
- Nicholas Maravell of Nick’s Organic Farm, an integrated livestock, crop and vegetable farm in Maryland, organic producer seat.
- Trudy Bialic, director of public affairs for the Seattle-based consumer-owned and operated natural foods retailer PCC Natural Markets, organic retailer seat.
- John Foster, senior manager of organic integrity for Earthbound Farm, organic handler seat.
- Joe Dickson, Food, Organic and Environmental Quality Standards Coordinator for Whole Foods Market, organic retailer seat.
Written nominations, with cover letters and resumes, must be postmarked on or before July 17.
Send nominations to Katherine E. Benham, NOP, USDA-AMS-TM-NOP, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Room 4004, Washington, D.C., 20250.
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) is the membership-based business association for organic agriculture and products in North America. Its members include growers, shippers, processors, certifiers, farmers' associations, distributors, importers, exporters, consultants, retailers and others. OTA’s Board of Directors is democratically elected by its members. OTA's mission is to promote and protect the growth of organic trade to benefit the environment, farmers, the public and the economy (www.ota.com).
