Transition Resources
Thinking about transitioning to organic production? There are a number of reasons to consider making the switch. We've got resources to get you started in the process.​
Why Organic?
There are a number of reasons a producer might choose to transition to organic. Here are just a few:
Strong Consumer Demand
Organic food and beverage sales are one of the fastest growing sectors in agri-food today, as consumers are increasingly invested in how their food is produced. In Canada in 2024:
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$9.75 Billion-Canadians spend on organic (8.21% growth from 2023 to 2024)
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$7.77 Billion-Value of Food & Beverage
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3.4%-Total mainstream market share​
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Learn more organic market data at Canada Organic Trade Association
Economics
While each operation is different and profitability is based on a number of factors, in general, organic operations can be more profitable due to reduced input costs and higher prices for commodities. It is easier to make a living off less land, so you don’t have to ‘go big or get out’. It is encouraged to establish your organic farm plan, do market research and calculate costs of production.
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Environment & Health
There is increasing evidence of the benefits of organic agriculture on environment, human, animal and insect health. The following resources offer scientific research to support these benefits.
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Where do I begin?
Educate Yourself
Start by doing as much research as you can into organic production methods to help you make an informed decision as to whether organic production will be a good fit for you and your operation. As with any new business, there are many factors to consider to ensure success. A strong organic farm plan ensures a sound approach.
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Familiarize yourself with the Canada Organic Standards
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Familiarize yourself with the Steps to Certification
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Visit the Pivot & Grow website
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Visit the Organic Production Planning Through Transition resource
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Visit our Production Resources web page​
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Talk to other organic producers! They are often happy to help and provide guidance as they were once in your position.
contact a certifier
All certification bodies are accredited by the CFIA and provide organic certification services under the Canada Organic Regime. The certification body directs the certification process and verifies that the Canadian Organic Standards have been followed. Each certification body uses their own forms for the certification process and have their own structures and services. Certification costs will vary depending on the certifying body. Some agencies will charge a flat rate, and others will have a series of rates, or charge based on acreage, production, size and complexity of the operation.
Take the time to call different certification bodies to learn about their fees, structures and services to determine which one is the right fit for your operation.
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The CB's to the right are in no particular order.
Ecocert Canada – Western Division
Saskatoon, SK
Phone: 306-665-9072
Fax: 306-665-9082
Email: info.canada@ecocert.com
Website: https://www.ecocert.com/en/home
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Pro-Cert Organic Systems
Saskatoon, SK
Phone: 306-382-1299
Fax: 306-382-0683
Email: info@pro-cert.org
Website: http://www.pro-cert.org/
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Trans-Canada Organic Certification Services (TCO Cert)
Humboldt SK S0K 2A0
Phone: 306-800-5210
Fax: 306-800-5211
Email: info@tcocert.ca
Website: http://www.tcocert.ca/
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OCIA International – Canada
Edmonton AB T6K 3P8
P. 1-780-851-9482 F. 1-888-823-3372
C. 780-266-9590
Email: jbernier@ocia.org
www.ocia.org
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CSI-Centre for Systems Integration
Ottawa, Ontario
General email: info@seeds-canada.ca
www.csi-ics.com/centre-systems-integration
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Organic Producers Association of Manitoba Cooperative Inc (OPAM)
Miniota, MB
Phone: 204.567.3745
Fax: 204.567.3749
Email: info@opam-mb.com
Website: https://opam-mb.com/
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Quality Assurance International (QAI)
San Diego, CA
Phone: (858) 792-3531
Fax: (858) 792-8665
Email: qai@qai-inc.com
Website: http://www.qai-inc.com/
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You can find a complete list of CFIA accredited certifying bodies here.
Sign up to our Newsletter
Keep up to date with the latest organic events, news and resources!
SaskOrganics hosts a number of events throughout the year from webinars, to field days, to our conference & trade show. These can be great educational opportunities and chances to network with folks in the organic sector.
Get in touch with any questions you may have.
306-535-3456
