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RMFU representative to head NOSB

Denver—Rocky Mountain Farmers Union President Dave Carter was elected last week by fellow members of the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) to head the board. He replaces Carolyn Bricky of Arizona, whose term is expiring this month. Carter was appointed to the NOSB last year by then U.S. Department (USDA) of Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman. He will serve as NOSB president for four years.

“I am honored to have this opportunity to serve as chair as the NOSB sorts through the important issues affecting organic agriculture,” Carter said. “Thoughtful implementation of the National Organic Standards Regulations is important to the growing organic food sector, which represents another food choice for consumers as well as a growing opportunity for producers.”

Members of the NOSB are charged with making regulatory decisions and recommendations to USDA, which is charged with implementing National Organic Standards Regulations. The regulations, which will standardize the “organic” definition of foods and other agricultural products bought by consumers, were finalized Dec. 20, 2000.

“Establishment of national standards for organic products is vital to standardize the definition of organic products nationwide and also is important to those looking at export markets,” Carter said.

Carter has a long history of involvement in the organic industry. His expertise includes familiarity with organic production and policy formation from his years of service as president of Rocky Mountain Farmers Union. He also has worked extensively with both producers and consumers in establishing marketing cooperatives for organically produced foods.

“The National Organic Standards Regulations adopted by USDA will be used to accredit the organizations, both state governments and private organizations, that certify individual organic producers,” said Carter.

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