Frequently Asked Questions
What information can be found in the database?
Organic Seed Finder serves as a clearinghouse of organic seed availability information. The database provides seed vendors a central place for posting their organic varieties and users (e.g., farmers) a free resource for sourcing certified organic seed. Users can search by crop type for certified organic varieties.
What are the biggest benefits of the database?
When organic farmers have seed that is appropriate for organic systems, the entire organic food industry benefits. The database fills an important information gap, and supports both the growing organic seed industry as well as farmers’ ability to consistently meet the National Organic Program’s organic seed requirement.
Who can access the database, and is there a fee?
People looking to source organic seed do not have to pay to use the database. Seed vendors pay a fee to post varieties based on annual organic seed sales.
How do seed vendors go about posting organic varieties to the database?
For instructions on using Organic Seed Finder as vendor, contact AOSCA at organicseedfinder@aosca.org.
Will any training sessions be offered to teach people how to use the database?
There is an archived webinar that provides instructions on how to access information in the database. This webinar can be found at eOrganic.org.
How is the database funded?
The database is funded through vendor fees and industry sponsorships.
How does my business or organization become a database sponsor?
For information on sponsorship, please contact AOSCA at organicseedfinder@aosca.org.
Can I use the Organic Seed Finder logo?
You must receive permission from AOSCA to use the Organic Seed Finder logo in your marketing materials, including brochures, websites, exhibit spaces, etc.
Does the National Organic Program endorse the database as a resource?
Yes, the National Organic Program has identified Organic Seed Finder as a valuable resource for producers and handlers looking to source certified organic seed, and as one place for certifiers and inspectors to verify compliance with the organic seed requirement.
How does the database get updated and how often?
AOSCA manages the database content and will send requests to participating vendors on a quarterly basis prompting them to send variety posting updates.
If I don’t use the Internet, can I still access data in Organic Seed Finder?
The database is an online resource only.
For more information about Organic Seed Finder, please contact organicseedfinder@aosca.org.