With the onset of spring, many farmers are considering their certification options. And when one news report after another shows how the organic program has become co-opted by corporate interests, more farmers are seeking an alternative. We want to be sure they seriously consider CNG certification.

This spring, we're providing these #CNGproud signs to farmer's markets and food co-ops that have met the criteria to become listed in our Markets Directory. 

When we released the news a few weeks ago that ManageMyMarket created ways for CNG growers to become more visible and searchable on farmers market websites, we wondered, what other tools are out there for farmers market managers? 

Our search led us to a few leaders in the farmers market game: FarmSpread and MarketWurks, in addition to ManageMyMarket. (photo above is from Umpqua Valley Farmers Market in Roseburg, Oregon, and features Big Lick Farm)

Photo from Fat Top Farm

Mushrooms are full of nutrients are are delicious to eat, but few conscientious eaters know how they’re grown or where they come from. These magnificent fungi behave so differently from plants that they needed a separate certification, and Certified Naturally Grown was ready to fill the gap. Since launching our Mushroom Certification in 2016, we’ve certified several mushroom producers from coast to coast. Here’s an update on the mushroom growers of CNG and what they’re up to.

Photo from Broad Wing Farm at Umpqua Valley Farmers Market in Roseburg, Oregon.

Hundreds of Certified Naturally Grown farmers participate in farmers markets that utilize the MangeMyMarket software for vendor registration, sales, invoices and reports, but until recently, it wasn’t possible for them to select their certification when registering as a vendor or creating their online profiles. We’re thrilled to announce that in January of this year, ManageMyMarket decided to offer Certified Naturally Grown as one of two sustainable designations (the other is Organic) in their vendor application! 

It’s true, there really is no “slow” season on a farm. But for some, winter is the ideal time to enhance your marketing game. Make the most of your CNG certification by taking these steps:

Growing numbers of food co-ops and independent grocers are highlighting that they provide food sourced from Certified Naturally Grown farms. (photo from Food Conspiracy Co-op in Tucson, AZ)

Certified Naturally Grown isn't just another label. 

We are a grassroots organization. Our funding comes primarily from the farmers and beekeepers who participate in our certification programs. That revenue covers almost all our expenses, but not quite. 

Photo from Oregon City Farmers Market

This fall, we’ve been in conversation with over 50 market managers about what steps they could take to be listed in the Markets Directory that we created in order to feature and thank the markets and grocers that support CNG producers in their area.

Many managers have shared with us that Certified Naturally Grown makes a big difference to their vendors and customers! 

We're pleased to announce that the following twelve farmers markets have recently qualified to be added to our directory:

Whether you’re curious about bees or an experienced beekeeper, these podcasts provide insight for folks at all levels of experience. They cover pollination, bee health and a range of beekeeping approaches. Each show encourages sustainable, DIY techniques that put the health of bees and pollinators first. (Photo above from Jennings Apiary in Ruston, Louisiana)