By Andi Anderson
In Indiana, a new community-driven initiative is helping farmers embrace sustainable agriculture. The Indiana Organic Network (ION), created by Purdue University researchers and local growers, aims to build stronger connections among Hoosier farmers, researchers, and markets to support organic farming practices statewide.
Organic agriculture, unlike conventional farming, emphasizes environmental health, soil quality, and long-term sustainability. However, transitioning to organic production can be challenging for farmers who must meet USDA Organic Certification standards and navigate new production methods.
Recognizing these challenges, Purdue’s Ashley Adair, Yichao Rui, and Roland Wilhelm teamed up with other experts to form ION, with funding from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
Adair, an organic agriculture specialist, often guides farmers through certification steps, helping them understand the National Organic Program and its standards.
“Many of my calls are from people interested in transitioning their land,” Adair said. “We talk about their goals, the knowledge they seek, and what it’s like to work with an organic certifier.”
ION’s goal is to foster collaboration, promote research partnerships, and create accessible market channels for organic products.
Rui emphasizes that farmers need reliable markets to sell organic crops profitably, while Wilhelm values how the collaboration benefits both scientists and farmers through field trials and data collection.
Katy Rogers, director of Teter Retreat and Organic Farm, appreciates ION’s mission, saying, “Farms can’t thrive without data and a support network, so we are grateful for ION and their assistance.”
Through Extension events, on-farm visits, and shared research, ION continues to grow a vibrant community that strengthens both organic and conventional farming in Indiana—helping Hoosier agriculture thrive for generations to come.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic
Categories: Indiana, Education, Sustainable Agriculture