The Canadian government is helping to fund a study that will look at the risks in transitioning from conventional agricultural production to organic production.
The $461,816 funding was announced during National Organics Week and support the Canadian Organic Growers initiative.
It is a first-of-a-kind study that will reach out to organic producers across the country, as well as others in the sector.
The data collected will be used to identify techniques that farmers can use to help reduce risk and manage their shift to organic production.
"More than ever, Canadians are looking to purchase organic products grown and made in Canada; however supply is not keeping pace at home or abroad," said Rocehlle Eisen, President of the Canadian Organic Growers. "There is a growing environmental and economic case for transitioning to organic agriculture in Canada and by enhancing our knowledge on the subject, we can develop effective tools, programs, and policies that can better support a farmer's journey to sustainable, organic production."
Canada's organic exports are valued at over $500 million.
Total annual retail sales of certified organic products in Canada are approximately $4.7 billion.
