Supporting a Vibrant Organic Sector through Economic Analysis: a Research and Extension Needs Assessment
Project Director
Carolyn Dimitri
Year Funded
2020
Award Number
2020-51300-32182
Funded Institution
New York University
Grant Program
OREI (Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative)
USDA NIFA Report
Project Overview
This project developed a nationwide agenda for applied economic research to address the needs of organic farmers, handlers, and supply chains. The team reviewed existing economic research and outreach for the organic sector; collected primary data from farmers, handlers, and service providers through surveys, interviews, and focus groups; and synthesized findings into a report on research needed to enhance economic sustainability for organic producers.
Four key issues emerged in farmer surveys and focus groups: (1) making the decision to farm organically, (2) farmer strategies to achieve profitability, (3) climate mitigation, and (4) quality of life, including work-life balance, coping with feelings of isolation as an organic farmer, and preparing for retirement.
Farmer Takeaways
(1) Beginning organic farmers can obtain vital information and assistance from other farmers, especially through mentorship and also farm visits, field days, and conferences.
(2) The capacity of university Extension to serve organic producers varies among states. If your state is weak on organic, reach out to neighboring states’ Extension services.
(3) The project has elucidated organic farmer economic research needs, which can drive future research and outreach to provide the practical assistance that farmers need.
Project Outputs
Dimitri, C., A. Pressman, L. Oberholtzer. 2025. Supporting organic farmers through information and technical assistance. Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems vol. 40.
Whelan, S. J., Orlander, D., Balsam, J., & Dimitri, C. (2024). Fitting a square peg in a round hole: Applying U.S. farm policy to organic farms. Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development, 13(4), 135–152.
Dimitri, C., Pressman, A., and Oberholtzer, L. 2024. Supporting a vibrant organic sector: The state of applied economic research in the U.S.
Dimitri, C., Pressman, A., and Oberholtzer, L. 2024. Supporting a vibrant organic sector: Data needs and applied economic research questions.