Washington, DC - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking nominations to fill a vacancy on the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) for an environmentalist or resource conservationist.  The board positions are specifically designated to represent various sectors of the organic community, including those who have expertise in areas of environmental protection and resource conservation, own or operate an organic production or handling operation, or own or operate a retail establishment with significant trade in organic products.

The NOSB, established under the Organic Foods Production Act and operating in accordance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act, is responsible for reviewing materials and/or recommending changes to the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances, and advising the Secretary of Agriculture on other aspects of the USDA organic regulations.

The environmentalist or resource conservationist selected to fill the current vacancy (created by a recent resignation) will serve from January 24, 2016 to January 23, 2020, the remainder of the former board member’s term.  On April 8, 2015, USDA invited nominations for an additional five vacancies on the NOSB.  All six board appointments will serve terms beginning on January 24, 2016, and will be announced in the near future.

Written nominations, with cover letters, resumes, and a required form (available on the USDA website), must be postmarked on or before October 29, 2015.  All applicable information should be sent to Michelle Arsenault, National Organic Program, USDA–AMS–NOP, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Room 2648, Ag Stop 0268, Washington, D.C. 20250.

To learn more about the NOSB and the nomination process, visit the AMS website.  For more information, contact Michelle Arsenault at (202) 997-0115 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..