Speaking at the Organic Trade Association’s Policy Conference, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recognized the unique nature of organic agricultural production and pledged to remove USDA obstacles to its continued growth. Vilsack says the agency will increase coverage options for organic producers under the federal crop insurance provided by USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) and reduce redundant paperwork requirements. RMA will also remove the current five-percent organic rate surcharge on all future crop insurance policies beginning in 2014. USDA will provide new guidance on organic production to relevant agencies to help encourage its continued growth.