By Carol McCracken (Post # 577)

The National Organic Program (NOP) which is under the auspices of the US Department of Agriculture announced today that it is taking steps to “ensure integrity of organic agricultural products by consistently implementing organic standards and enforcing compliance with the regulations throughout the world,” according to a press release reprinted in the “Sustainable Food News.”

The NOP has just published a two-year stragetic plan that includes five goals emphasizing its intention to: run an efficient and effective operation, communicate clear standards, enforce organic regulations more effectively, etc.

If the plan proceeds as planned, the NOP expects among other results to achieve “greater enforcement of standards,” according to the press release reprinted in the “Sustainable Food News.”

The “Sustainable Food News” is the largest, daily on-line newsletter to the organic and natural food industry. For more information, please contact Dan McGovern, Hill resident, at 207 – 749 – 5249.