OSRI Act aims to expand USDA support for organic and sustainable agriculture
The Organic Science and Research Investment (OSRI) Act has been introduced in Congress with the goal of improving organic agriculture research and strengthening the future of sustainable farming in the United States. The measure highlights the need for increased support for organic practices that improve soil health, reduce reliance on chemical inputs, and help farmers build resilience in the face of economic and climate challenges.
The OSRI Act calls for a coordinated approach to organic research under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It directs agencies to expand research networks and ensure data is shared to support farmers across different regions. One of the major provisions includes increasing funding for the Organic Research and Extension Initiative (OREI), from $60 million in 2026 to $100 million by 2031. This research will focus on climate resilience, ecological pest management, and the preservation of traditional farming knowledge.
The Act also authorizes dedicated funding for the Researching the Transition to Organic Program, which supports farmers who are exploring or adopting organic methods. Additionally, the Organic Data Initiative would receive expanded support to help improve national data used for market development and risk management.
Although the focus is organic agriculture, the benefits extend to all farmers. Many sustainable practices, such as cover cropping, crop rotation, and integrated pest management, were first advanced through organic research. These methods are increasingly being used to reduce input costs and improve long-term soil productivity on farms of all types.
Investment in agricultural research has strong economic returns. Studies show that every dollar invested produces more than twenty dollars in economic benefit, boosting rural economies and research-supported job growth.
“Investing in organic agriculture research helps farmers and communities improve resiliency to both climate and supply chain disruption. These research programs build essential knowledge that empowers regionally appropriate organic programs to thrive. In turn, the benefits ripple across society by lifting rural communities, strengthening organic supply chains, and expanding healthy options for consumers,” said Renaud des Rosiers, Amy’s Kitchen.
Supporters are encouraging farmers and community members to learn more, contact elected officials, and help raise awareness for strong agricultural research funding in the next Farm Bill.
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