About NOFA Vermont

Our Mission

The Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont is a nonprofit association of farmers, gardeners, and consumers working to promote an economically viable and ecologically sound Vermont food system for the benefit of current and future generations.

NOFA Vermont was founded in Putney in 1971, making it one of the oldest organic farming associations in the United States. Today, we are proud to have over 1300 members throughout the state and to certify over 580 farms and processors to the USDA National Organic Program Standards. We are passionate about increasing the acreage of certified organic land in Vermont while also increasing the access of local organic food to all Vermonters. All our programs strive to meet these goals, whether it involves working with schools to bring local foods into the cafeteria or providing business planning services to farmers to ensure their businesses stay viable. Whether you are a Vermonter who gardens, farms, eats local food, or enjoys our rural communities, NOFA Vermont welcomes you.

Annual Report

Click here for the 2011 Annual Report.  

NOFA Vermont Board of Directors

Mimi Arnstein,* Marshfield
Farmer, Wellspring Farm CSA

Regina Beidler, Randolph Center
Farmer and East Coast Coordinator, Farmer Ambassador Program, Organic Valley

Josh Brown, Burlington
Senior Communications Officer, University of Vermont

Jennifer Colby, Burlington
Farmer, Howling Wolf Farm and Pasture Network Outreach Coordinator, UVM Center for Sustainable Agriculture

Paul Costello
Executive Director, Vermont Council for Rural Development

Sona Desai,* Burlington
Manager, Intervale Center Food Hub

Pat Hayes, Enosburg Falls
Retailer and retired dairy farmer

Mara Hearst
Student Board Representative, UVM

Andrew Knafel, Shaftsbury
Farmer, Clearbrook Farm

Jack Manix*, E. Dummerston
Farmer, Walker Farm 

Andrea Scott
Farmer, Champlain Orchards and NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentor

Ross Thurber, Brattleboro
Dairy farmer, Lilac Ridge Farm

Kate Turcotte, Shelburne
Cheese maker, Shelburne Farms

Helen Whybrow, Waitsfield
Farmer, Knoll Farm; Program Coordinator, Center for Whole Communities

* Board leadership team

Click here for our staff directory. 

Click here for contact information and directions to our office.