Tasmanian Organic-Dynamic Producers Inc

Key Points in the Certification Process

For growers who wish to Certify their farm the following procedure will be followed:

STEP 1: You must become a FULL MEMBER of T.O.P. by filling out the form T.O.P. MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM. You will need to send the completed form to T.O.P. for consideration. In the event that your application is not accepted T.O.P. will refund your membership payment.

STEP 2: Once accepted as a full member you will need to read and understand the T.O.P. Standards. If you have any enquiries or questions you are urged to contact T.O.P.

STEP 3: Next you complete the STATUTORY DECLARATION (see note 1). The completed declaration is then returned to T.O.P.

At this point you have formerly entered the APPLICATION for CERTIFICATION phase. The CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE will then process your application.

STEP 4: Next, a T.O.P. Certification Committee member will contact you to arrange a visit to your farm for the purpose of the inspection and audit.

STEP 5: T.O.P. inspector/s will then visit your farm to conduct the inspection. The inspectors are required to take samples for analysis. The samples will be sent to an approved laboratory for residue analysis. You will be billed separately for any analysis costs and inspection fees.

The inspectors will then prepare a report for T.O.P. Certification Division. The Division will then discuss the report and pass recommendations to Council.

STEP 6: You will receive a copy of your assessment report and your farm will be placed under "in transition". See note 2

STEP 7: Each year your farm will be re-inspected (POA).

Note 1: For persons who may be seeking certification for manufacturing and processing. If you are interested in certifying your manufacturing or processing facility you need to apply to T.O.P. You will be required to complete a STATUTORY DECLARATION and have your facility inspected.

In terms of fees these assessments are treated on a case-by-case basis

Note 2: Your farm will be placed "in transition" under the inspection system for a period of at least 12 months before certification would be considered. This is in accordance with the provisions set out in Section 3.4 of the National Standard. For further information on this point please contact T.O.P. Certification Division.