Organic Acreage Increase Misleading

USDA numbers show organic production acreage is up 20%, but the vast majority of the bump comes from four farms in Alaska.  Politico reports 700,000 acres in Alaska account for 96% of the increase.  In 2014, Alaska had just 376 certified organic acres spread between 17 farms; but the following year, 695,000 some acres were certified at four farms.  The Organic Trade Association says the new acres stem from a single rangeland certification.

While OTA is supportive of all new players in the industry, the Association says the 2015 increase "does not reflect a significant increase in crop acres".

Bering Pacific Ranches received the Alaska certification last year for a range that is home to roughly 6,000 head of cattle.

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