About the Program
The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) farmer-to-farmer mentorship program builds connections between experienced organic producers and producers transitioning to organic, supports the transition process, and creates a stronger network of organic producers across the United States.
Carolina Farm Stewardship Association is managing the TOPP mentorship program for North Carolina and South Carolina, which launched in spring 2024. The program is a year-long partnership between mentors and mentees, with the goal of mentees transitioning acreage to certified organic production by the end of the mentorship.
In addition to the mentorship, CFSA’s trained staff will provide technical assistance to mentees, including completing an Organic Systems Plan (OSP), help writing a Conservation Activity Plan (CPA 138), and preparing for an audit.
Interested in being a mentor or receiving mentorship?
Find more information on the USDA’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program website and click the buttons below to fill out an application. This is a paid opportunity for mentors, and mentees receive valuable benefits, including education stipends.
Meet the Mentors
Mentors play a crucial role in helping new organic producers succeed while growing the organic movement, and have the opportunity to guide and support producers who are transitioning to organic, providing them with valuable insights, practical advice, and industry best practices.
Jane Saiers
RambleRill Farm | Hillsborough, NC
Darin Knapp
RambleRill Farm | Hillsborough, NC
Tom Elmore
Thatchmore Farms | Leicester, NC
Mary Roberts
Windcrest Farm | Monroe, NC
Chris Sermons
Bio Way Farm | Ware Shoals, SC
Rebecca Bills
R & R Acres | Jamestown, SC
Shiloh Avery
Tumbling Shoals Farm | Millers Creek, NC
Ben Dubard
Wild Hope Farm | Chester, SC
Steven Beltram
TendWell Farm | Old Fort, NCDo you have questions about the program? Email Mary Beth Miller at [email protected] or call (919) 542-2402 ext. 851.
This program is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).