Conversion to organic navigation guide for Austrian farmers

Summary in the original language of the document

This practice abstract lists current trusted providers of organic advisory services for farmers who want to convert to organic production in Austria as well as all important actors involved in the process.
Practical recommendations
The legal basis of organic standards is EU regulation 2018/484.
• Pre-conversion information: Regional agricultural chambers and the organic farmers association Bio Austria offer Individual farm consultancy and organic farm visit opportunities.
• Websites with information about organic farming principles and standards:
o www.lko.at/Bio
o www.bio-austria.at
o www.erde-saat.at
o www.demeter.at
o www.oekolandbau.de
o www.fibl.org
o www.bio-net.at
• Sign certification contract: Certification bodies are private service providers accredited to conduct organic certifications. To start the transitioning process, farmers can choose one of the following certification bodies: ABG, BIOS, LACON, SGS, SLK, LKV. The certification body will once a year conduct an on-farm inspection visit to assure that the organic standards are followed. A conversion time of 24 months (or 36 months for permanent crops) must pass until the farm products can be labelled as certified organic.
• Allowed inputs: Organic farm management means that operating resources are restricted according to Regulation (EU) 2018/484. Permitted inputs such as fertilisers, pesticides, or feed stuff with approval for organic farming are listed in the Austrian catalogue of permitted inputs.
• Seed and planting material: Only organic seeds and planting material are allowed in organic farming. A list of available organic seed lots for Austria can be found in the Austrian Organic Seed Database.
• Advanced training: LFI, Bio Austria, FIBL, Demeter provide advanced trainings.