OTA 2006 Fund Campaign Raises More than $500,000

GREENFIELD, Mass. -- The Organic Trade Association's 2006 fund campaign has collected $518,000 to support its public policy, media relations, and advocacy work for the year, the trade group said yesterday. The theme for this year's fund campaign was "Evolving the Organic Agenda."

In looking to the future, OTA's board of directors in 2005 adopted a new vision that sees organic products becoming a significant part of everyday life. "We asked our members and other organic businesses to show support of that vision, by making a contribution to OTA, and they responded positively," said Debra Boyle, co-chair of the OTA 2006 Host Committee, in a statement. "They know that OTA is the primary organization to advance an agenda to benefit all who care about the environment, farmers, and a thriving organic marketplace."

In the 2006 campaign, more than 210 companies pledged funds to support OTA's work. The trade group has approximately 1,700 members, the majority of which are small businesses.

A primary focus of OTA's work during the next year will be to advocate for an Organic Title in the 2007 Farm Bill. Such a provision, according to OTA, will hopefully bring government recognition and support of organic agriculture and trade to new levels. OTA has also committed to launching OTA Canada in 2006. This effort will significantly expand OTA programming and resources in Canada. Annual Fund contributions from companies in Canada are earmarked for the work of OTA Canada.
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