USDA seeks 4 to serve on organic standards board

The USDA is seeking a few qualified individuals to serve on the National Organic Standards Board.

Nominations are due June 1, 2021.

The NOSB, a 15-member volunteer advisory board appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, considers public comments and makes recommendations on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances; and other topics involved in organic agriculture, the USDA wrote in a newsletter. As designed by Congress, the board ensures a broad range of industry perspectives are represented.

Each member serves a five-year term and represents specific sectors of the organic industry. Openings for positions beginning January 2022 include:

• One individual who owns or operates an organic farming operation or an employee of such individual.
• One individual with expertise in areas of environmental protection and resource conservation.
• One individual who represents public interest or consumer interest groups.
• One individual with expertise in the fields of toxicology, ecology, or biochemistry.

“Working to include voices from historically underserved communities involved in organic agriculture is important to the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service and National Organic Program,” USDA wrote in its newsletter. “We encourage applications from traditionally underrepresented individuals, organizations, and businesses to reflect the diversity of this industry.”

The USDA said written applications must include the name of the position being applied for, a resume and an AD-755 application form.

A cover letter and letters of reference are optional. The NOSB has a formal recommendation document on criteria for NOSB Membership.

Electronic submissions are preferred and should be emailed to Michelle.Arsenault@usda.gov.