*Nominations Due March 31, 2025; access nomination materials below.*
About
The Wisconsin Organic Advisory Council (OAC) was established in response to recommendations by the 2004 Governor's Task Force on Organic Agriculture. The group first met in February 2006. A cooperating Interagency Team composed of representatives of major state and federal agriculture agencies meets with the Council.
Purpose
The purpose of the OAC is to provide guidance and insight to the Secretary of Agriculture, the Governor, the Legislature, and other state agencies on actions that can be taken to further the Wisconsin organic industry.
The Council meets six times a year to discuss emerging issues and opportunities in the Wisconsin organic industry, identify gaps and needs, and advise the DATCP Secretary so that Wisconsin leadership can promote organic production, processing, and purchasing opportunities for Wisconsin farmers, processors, and consumers and maintain Wisconsin's national leadership position in organic agriculture.
Structure
The Council consists of 12 people representing the spectrum of organic production, processing, and marketing in Wisconsin. The 12 seats are:
- Three certified organic farmers, preferably reflecting several types of farms (dairy, vegetable, etc.).
- Three representatives of the organic business sector.
- One representative of organic consumers.
- One representative of a private, non-profit educational organization involved in organic agriculture.
- One representative of the certification industry.
- Three at-large members.
2024-25 Organic Advisory Council Members
Council members serve three-year terms with four
terms expiring each year. Council members can serve up to two consecutive
terms. The nomination period opens at the beginning of each year, with
selections announced in May. The Wisconsin Organic Advisory Council seeks
individuals willing to share thoughts and opinions with fellow OAC members and
interagency partners.
Nominations
DATCP is now accepting nominations for the Wisconsin Organic Advisory Council until March 31, 2025. Seats are available in each of the following categories: organic farmer, organic business, organic consumer, and at-large.
To apply, complete and submit the 2025 OAC Nomination Form.
Email the completed application to Cassi Miller at cassi.miller@wisconsin.gov or mail it to:
Overall Organic Advisory Council Priorities
Organic Advisory Council Priorities List adopted January 2017.
Council Priorities