Quality Certification Services - QCS

10/14/2026

The recent article from the Organic Farming Research Foundation highlights the work of our clients, McLean Family Farms and Uncle Matt's Organic, and their commitment to strengthening the future of organic citrus in Florida

Through conservation practices, soil health initiatives, and long-term stewardship, they're helping address some of the biggest challenges facing citrus growers while demonstrating what's possible through organic agriculture. QCS is proud to certify both operations, supporting organic integrity from grove to finished product. 🍊🌱

Read the article: https://ofrf.org/news/using-synergy-conservation-practices-and-nrcs-support-to-save-citrus-with-uncle-matts-organic/

Written by Mary Elizabeth Kidd, OFRF Communications AssociateOFRF is currently working to increase farmer and community awareness of the federal funding opportunities available to organic and transitioning farms. As part of our work with the Southeast region of the USDA’s Transition to Organic Par...

10/13/2026

Did you know some of the most valuable crops on a farm are never harvested? Many organic and regenerative organic producers plant cover crops in the fall to help protect soil, reduce erosion, improve water retention, suppress weeds, and build long-term soil fertility. These crops may not end up at market, but they play a critical role in creating healthier, more resilient farming systems.

Cover crops also support biodiversity both above and below the soil surface, helping farmers strengthen the foundation of their operation for seasons to come.

🌱 Healthy soil doesn't take the winter off, and neither does the work of building it.

10/10/2026

Biochar is gaining attention in organic agriculture as a versatile carbon-rich material that can support both soil health and environmental sustainability. Produced through a process called pyrolysis, biochar is created by heating biomass in a low-oxygen environment, resulting in a stable, porous material that differs significantly from ash.

Its unique structure can help improve soil moisture retention, nutrient-holding capacity, soil structure, and habitat for beneficial soil microorganisms. Biochar is also used in some livestock operations as bedding material, offering additional flexibility across farming systems.

One of the most discussed benefits of biochar is its potential role in carbon sequestration. By converting plant materials into a stable form of carbon that can remain in the soil for extended periods, biochar may help reduce the amount of atmospheric carbon returned through natural decomposition processes.

For organic producers, it is important to understand how biochar is sourced and manufactured. Organic standards place restrictions on the materials used to create biochar, and compliance considerations vary depending on feedstock sources and processing methods. The use of activated charcoal and other carbon materials may also be subject to separate requirements.

As interest in regenerative and climate-smart agriculture continues to grow, biochar remains a promising tool for producers seeking to enhance soil performance while supporting long-term sustainability goals. As with any new input, it is always important to consult with your certifier before use to ensure the product and its intended application comply with organic standards.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.qcsinfo.org

10/08/2026

Do I really need an on-site inspection to become USDA Organic certified?

It's one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer is simple: yes.

An on-site inspection is an important part of the organic certification process. During the visit, an inspector reviews your operation, records, production practices, and inputs to verify that your Organic System Plan is being followed.

A helpful way to think about it: inspectors are the eyes and ears of the certifier. Their role is to observe, verify, and provide an accurate picture of your operation.

These inspections help protect the integrity of the USDA Organic label and maintain the trust consumers place in certified organic products.

❓ Have questions about inspections or organic certification? We're here to help.

🔗 qcsinfo.org

10/06/2026

October is National Farm to School Month! There's something special about knowing the farmer who grew your food. Farm to School programs help connect local farms with local schools, giving students access to fresh food while creating valuable opportunities for farmers. Many programs also include school gardens, farm visits, and classroom activities that help kids learn more about agriculture and where their food comes from. Buying local does more than fill lunch trays. It supports farm families, local businesses, and communities by keeping food dollars closer to home.

Want to learn more? Visit the National Farm to School Network: https://www.farmtoschool.org 🌽

10/05/2026

You've probably heard people talking about the Farm Bill, but what exactly is it? 🌾

The Farm Bill helps shape agricultural programs, conservation initiatives, research funding, risk management tools, and support systems that impact farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across the country.

From conservation programs and soil health initiatives to agricultural research and rural development, the Farm Bill plays a major role in the future of U.S. agriculture.

As discussions around the new Farm Bill continue, staying informed can help producers better understand potential opportunities and changes that may affect their operations.

📖 Learn more about the Agricultural Act of 2026 (Farm Bill 2.0):
https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/agricultural-act-of-2026-farm-bill-20

10/01/2026

Hello October! Harvest season is here, cooler mornings are settling in, and many organic farmers are already making plans for next year.

This time of year often includes planting cover crops, checking field conditions, reviewing records, and mapping out crop rotations for the season ahead. A little planning now can help keep things running smoothly when spring arrives.

A few fall to-dos:
🌱 Get cover crops seeded while conditions are favorable
📝 Jot down notes from this year's successes and challenges
🚜 Check fields for erosion, compaction, or drainage concerns
🌾 Start organizing next year's rotation plans

09/29/2026

Managing organic certification paperwork doesn't have to be complicated. By using Quick Organics alongside Quality Certification Services (QCS), you can streamline recordkeeping, simplify documentation, and stay organized throughout the certification process.

✅ Easier record management
✅ Improved organization and traceability
✅ Simplified preparation for inspections
✅ More efficient communication and document submission
✅ Support from QCS's experienced certification team

Whether you're a grower, livestock producer, processor, or handler, Quick Organics helps keep your records in one place while QCS provides the guidance and certification services you need to maintain compliance and achieve your organic goals.

🌱 Ready to learn more about organic certification with QCS?

🔗 https://qcsinfo.org/

Together, Quick Organics and QCS can help make your certification journey more efficient, organized, and stress-free.

09/27/2026

FAQ: If my farm is certified organic, do I also need food safety certification? It depends on your markets and customer requirements. USDA Organic certification verifies compliance with organic standards, while food safety programs focus on reducing contamination risks and supporting food safety management practices.

Many retailers and buyers request both forms of verification. Understanding marketplace expectations early can help create a more effective certification strategy.

🔗 Learn more about GLOBALG.A.P. and food safety certification: https://qcsinfo.org/certifications/