5. New York Certified Organic

Location:

• Mostly western/central NY but also statewide

Why interesting:

• Active cluster initiated originally by farmers Klaus and Mary-Howell Martens.  The Martens transitioned 1000 acres to organic production in mid 1990’s.  There was no support (and sometimes antagonism) from regional extension.  They networked with other local organic farmers to learn and experiment about organic grain production.  As they succeeded, they formed NYCO, to share knowledge with many farmers in an intentional effort to grow the industry. Group meets monthly through off-season, publishes outstanding newsletter for members, and hosts occasional field days.  The Martens, as key organic grain producing leaders, also have written extensively for New Farm and Acres USA. Mary-Howell now serves on the Cornell CALS Dean’s Advisory Council.
• Originally, the group was part of OCIA and also provided certification services. That has been dropped.
• Through the NYCO meetings and networking, they have attracted active participation from organic fertilizer and amendment dealers (e.g. Fertrell, Krehers)
• New organic farmers have relied on NYCO for transition advice.
• To be able to mix and market grains and feed, The Martens opened a milling business, in 2002.

Common feature:

• Organic grains- maybe forages also
• Organic Philosophy

Type(s) & numbers of participants:

• Numbers: 30-50
• Farmers: Organic, transitioning and conventional
• Processors:  Martens’ Mill, Birds Eye Foods, and milk processors
• Amendment Dealers; Fertrell, Krehers, others

Where in life cycle/brief history:

• 10 years

Key contacts:

• Klaus and Mary Howell Martens, Brett Kreher, John Myer, John Sailus

Liaison:
Anusuya Rangarajan, Director, Cornell Small Farm Program, Department of Horticulture, 121 Plant Science Building, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, Phone: 607-255-1780. Fax: 607-255-0599, Email: ar47@cornell.edu