Transition Toolkit

"Is organic right for my operation?"

We can help you get the information and resources you need to answer this question.

We offer fully a customizable Service Program
with Transition Toolkits.

Let us be your 'Organic Mechanic'

Our Transition Toolkit Service Program is designed to offer customized assistance through the organic certification process. Whether assistance is needed setting up a recordkeeping system and understanding the process, or comprehensive assistance including agronomy and approved input selection is desired, there is a Toolkit right for your operation. Multiple Toolkit Service Options are available to fit your operational needs. We can connect you with the Toolkit that is right for you!

Utility Starter Kit

One-Time Service. Flat fee for up to 8 hours of assistance. Travel expense additional.

In-person consultation with an organic certification specialist on your farm(s). Limited assistance with creating your OSP to prepare for the application process when your land is eligible for organic.
Custom resource kit. Receive a comprehensive resource kit tailored to your needs and goals for self-study and consideration through your transition.
Inputs review. Technical report of options for approved organic inputs suited for your operation.
Record Keeping & Certification Guidance from an experienced organic inspector.
Assessment & Next Steps. After our in-person visit, receive a “Next Steps” assessment detailing the gaps between your existing practices and organic compliance.
All Toolkits Include subscription to quarterly newsletter applicable to the Upper Midwest organic research, issues and events

Versatility Kit

Subscription Service. Annual fee for up to 20 hours of assistance per year. Travel expense additional.

Organic System Plan and Application. Selection of a certifier that meets your needs. When the time is right, assistance with submitting your application and certifier communication as needed.
Customized Record Keeping System Establishment.
Training for any farm employees responsible for managing organic land in record-keeping and Best Practices. Customized materials for self-study provided.
Input Selection Assistance. Determining what types of inputs are approved for organic use and locating them. Insight and assistance selecting organic/ organic approved seed varieties.
Inspection Assistance. Preparing for and attendance at your first organic inspection, if desired.
All Toolkits Include subscription to quarterly newsletter applicable to the Upper Midwest organic research, issues and events

Premium Support Kit

Subscription Service. Annual fee (estimated) for up to 30 hours of assistance per year. Quotes customized based on acres and complexity. Travel expense additional.

All the services in the Versatility Kit in addition to:

Goalsetting for your farm. Evaluating your resource base and what organic enterprises are the best fit.
Comprehensive Agronomy. Service from a dedicated agronomist with experience in organic systems who can develop your fertility program.
Livestock Integration. Developing a forage & grazing program (if applicable) to complement your crop rotation and fertility needs.
Grants and Cost Share Assistance. Deciphering and preparing applications for grants and cost-share programs.
Financial Expertise. Collaborative enterprise planning and budgeting for organic acres.

Mae Petrehn

Production Protocol Manager

As the Production Protocol Manager with Dakota's Best Seed, Mae’s goal is to provide growers with relevant technical knowledge about organic systems. Part of her position is to coordinate our Transition Toolkit program, guiding growers through the organic transition process.

Her background is in organic certification and inspection, feedlot compliance, ranch management and grazing planning. In 2011, she completed an M.S. in Sustainable Agriculture from Iowa State University. Mae believes that organic industry offers opportunities for farms to diversify and be compensated for their land stewardship, and hopes she can be part of accessing organic easier for growers all over the Midwest.

To stay busy Mae runs a pastured sheep enterprise on her farm outside of New London, MN while updating an ancient farmhouse. With any free time left, she loves reading, and improving her dog training skills with her border collie Zak.