Minnesota Organic Advisory Task Force accepting applications

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Legislature reauthorized the Minnesota Organic Advisory Task Force (OATF) during the 2016 legislative session and all 15 positions are now open for appointment.

The OATF advises the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) and the University of Minnesota (U of M) about policies and programs that will improve organic agriculture in the state. The task force must meet at least twice per year and members serve three-year terms.

“We are proud of Minnesota’s place as a long-time leader in organic agriculture,” said MDA Commissioner Dave Frederickson. “We need task force members who will speak up about ways the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the U of M can help Minnesota’s organic sector continue to grow and thrive.”

The OATF needs members from the following categories:

· Organic farmers (3)

· Organic processors (2)

· Wholesaler or distributor of organic products (1)

· Retailer of organic products (1)

· Nonprofit organization representing producers (1)

· Organic certification agencies (1)

· University of Minnesota Extension (1)

· University of Minnesota faculty (1)

· United States Department of Agriculture (1)

· Organic consumer representative (1)

· The public (2)

Vacancies will be filled through the state’s Open Appointments process. The application form is available online at http://www.sos.state.mn.us/boards-commissions/current-vacancies/ or by calling the Secretary of State's office at (651) 297-5845. We ask applicants to identify the category/sector they want to represent and strongly encourage them to submit a cover letter describing their interest and qualifications.

The Commissioner of Agriculture will appoint OATF members in consultation with the University of Minnesota. Applicants who submit their materials by June 28 will receive first consideration.