North Dakota Organic Facts

Organic farming has been one of the fastest growing segments of U.S. agriculture for over a decade. According to the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS), North Dakota had a total of 159 certified organic farms in 2005, which is down from a high of 176 farms in 2001. North Dakota ranks second in the number of certified organic cropland acres.

North Dakota is by far the leader in production of oilseeds (flax & sunflowers), producing 50 percent of the total U. S. Production. The state also leads the nation in production of organic oats and buckwheat. North Dakota ranks second in the production of rye, dry peas and lentils.

As of 2006, 30 companies in North Dakota are organically certified to handle and/or process organic products. These companies are diverse in size, ranging from meat slaughter to flour milling.

For more information about the status of organic agriculture in North Dakota visit the North Dakota Agriculture Department's web site http://agdepartment.com/organic/statusorganicagnd.htm