PROPOSED RULES
Continuance of WSR 00-13-012.
Supplemental Notice to WSR 99-24-133.
Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 98-15-016.
Title of Rule: Organic crop production standards.
Purpose: Chapter 16-154 WAC are the rules for organic crop production. The rules provide standards for organic crop production and set record-keeping requirements for organic crop producers.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: Chapter 15.86 RCW.
Statute Being Implemented: Chapter 15.86 RCW.
Summary: The proposed amendments to chapter 16-154 WAC update the organic crop production standards. The amendments specify the food production guidelines, record-keeping requirements, and give a comprehensive list of the materials and practices that are approved and prohibited in crop production. The amendments include two new sections that outline the organic farm plan requirements and mushroom standards. The supplemental includes changes that were made based on the comments from the first hearing. This filing continues the adoption date.
Reasons Supporting Proposal: Applicants to the organic food program will benefit from the rule update and from the clarification of the definitions, crop productions standards, materials that are approved and prohibited for use in organic production, and record-keeping requirements.
Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting, Implementation and Enforcement: Miles McEvoy, Olympia, (360) 902-1924.
Name of Proponent: Organic Food Program, Washington State Department of Agriculture, governmental.
Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.
Explanation of Rule, its Purpose, and Anticipated Effects: The organic crop production standards, chapter 16-154 WAC, were first adopted in 1987. The rules provide the standards for organic crop production and include a list of generically approved materials that may be used by producers of organic crops. The standards include a list of approved fertilizers, soil amendments, crop production aids, pest control materials and post-harvest materials. The standards also include a list of prohibited materials and practices. In addition, the rules specify the requirements regarding buffer zones, borders at risk, treated wood, roadside vegetation management, genetically engineered organisms, organic farm plan and recordkeeping for organic crop production.
The organic crop production standards are being revised for a number of reasons. One, they will clarify the standards regarding genetic engineering, transplants, seeds, sprouts, and transitional requirements. Two, they will align Washington's organic standards with national and international organic standards. Three, the proposed amendments will enhance organic integrity through the requirements for notification and nonchemical vegetation management. Fourth, the list of approved and prohibited materials will be clarified and updated to national organic standards.
Proposal Changes the Following Existing Rules: See addendum [WSR 00-13-012].
A small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW.
A copy of the statement may be obtained by writing to Miles McEvoy, Organic Food Program, P.O. Box 42560, Olympia, WA 98504-2560, phone (360) 902-1924, fax (360) 902-2087.
Section 201, chapter 403, Laws of 1995, does not apply to this rule adoption. Washington State Department of Agriculture is not a listed agency in section 201.
Date of Intended Adoption: September 18, 2000.
August 17, 2000
Candace A. Jacobs, DVM
Assistant Director