USDA seeks nominees for five open seats on the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB).

The 15-member advisory board considers and makes recommendations on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances and other issues involved in the production, handling and processing of USDA certified organic products.

Each member serves a five-year term and represents a specific sector of the organic community. Current openings for positions beginning January 2021 include:

Two people who own or operate an organic farming operation or employees of such a farm.

Two who represent public interest or consumer interest groups.

One who is a USDA-accredited certifying agent.

Nominees might also be considered to fill future, unexpected vacancies in any of the seven categories representing the breadth of the organic community.

Members attend two in-person meetings each year and participate in bi-monthly subcommittee conference calls. USDA reimburses NOSB members for approved travel and associated lodging expenses.

Deadline for nominations is June 1. Nominations must include a resume and an AD-755 application form. Nominations may also include an optional cover letter and letters of reference. Send them to Michelle.Arsenault@usda.gov (electronic submissions are preferred) or to her at USDA-AMS-NOP, 1400 Independence Ave. S.W., Room 2642-S., Ag Stop 0268, Washington, DC 20250-0268.