Status: NOSB Call for Nominations is OPEN
Submission Deadline: June 1, 2021
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Organic Program (NOP) seeks nominations of qualified individuals for four seats on the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) to begin in January 2022. The 15-member advisory board considers and makes recommendations on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances and other issues that involve the production, handling, and processing of USDA certified organic products.
USDA seeks to fill four NOSB vacancies. Each member serves a five-year term and represents specific sectors of the organic community. Members participate in bi-monthly subcommittee conference calls and attend two public meetings each year. USDA reimburses NOSB members for approved travel and associated lodging expenses.
Current openings include:
- One individual who owns or operates an organic farming operation or an employee of such individual.
- One individual with expertise in areas of environmental protection and resource conservation.
- One individual who represents public interest or consumer interest groups.
- One individual with expertise in the fields of toxicology, ecology, or biochemistry.
The USDA encourages submissions from traditionally underrepresented individuals, organizations, and businesses to reflect the diversity of this industry. The USDA encourages submissions from qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applications of qualified candidates will also be accepted to fill future unexpected vacancies for any of the seven NOSB seats representing the scope of the organic community.
How to Apply:
Written applications must include:
- Resume
- AD-755 application form (pdf)
- Name of position to which you are applying
Applications may also include:
- Cover letter (optional)
- Letters of reference (optional)
Electronic submissions are preferred and should be emailed to Michelle.Arsenault@usda.gov. You may also mail your application materials: USDA-AMS-NOP, 1400 Independence Avenue S.W., Room 2642-S., Ag Stop 0268, Washington, DC 20250-0268.
Additional information
- Federal Register Notice
- NOSB Recommendation on Criteria for NOSB Membership (pdf)
- About the NOSB - Current members, Activities, Resources
Appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, the NOSB is a Federal Advisory Committee comprised of a diverse group of individuals from the organic community. In accordance with the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, the Board shall be comprised of 15 members, of which:
- Four shall be individuals who own or operate an organic farming operation or employees of such individuals.
- Two shall be individuals who own or operate an organic handling operation or employees of such individuals.
- One shall be an individual who owns or operates a retail establishment with significant trade in organic products or employees of such individuals.
- Three shall be individuals with expertise in areas of environmental protection and resource conservation.
- Three shall be individuals who represent public interest or consumer interest groups.
- One shall be an individual with expertise in the fields of toxicology, ecology, or biochemistry.
- One shall be an individual who is a certifying agent as identified under section 6515 of this title.