Standard Owner Benchmark - DEMETER USA

Demeter USA is a non-profit certification organization that provides a certification program for biodynamic farming practices in the United States. Biodynamic farming is a holistic approach to agriculture that involves treating the farm as a self-sustaining ecosystem, using natural methods for fertilization, pest control, and soil management, and aligning planting and harvesting schedules with the lunar cycle.

The Demeter certification program is based on the principles of biodynamic farming and requires farmers to meet specific standards in areas such as biodiversity, soil health, animal welfare, and social responsibility. Farms and products that are certified by Demeter USA are authorized to use the Demeter certification mark on their packaging and marketing materials, indicating that they have met the organization's rigorous standards.

Demeter USA also offers education and resources to farmers and consumers about biodynamic farming practices and their benefits, including increased soil fertility, biodiversity, and nutrient density in crops. The organization works to promote biodynamic farming as a sustainable and regenerative approach to agriculture, and to support the growth of a biodynamic farming community in the United States.

Beyond agriculture, Demeter USA also offers certification for biodynamic wines, indicating that the wine was made from grapes grown using biodynamic practices. The organization works to promote biodynamic winemaking as a way to produce high-quality wines while also supporting healthy ecosystems and communities.

Here are some key points about Demeter USA:

-Biodynamic Certification: Demeter USA offers certification for farms, ranches, vineyards, and other agricultural operations that meet the standards of biodynamic agriculture. Biodynamic certification goes beyond organic certification by incorporating additional principles such as biodiversity, soil health, and cosmic influences.

-Standards and Principles: Demeter USA follows the international biodynamic standards set by Demeter International. These standards encompass various aspects of agriculture, including soil fertility, crop diversity, animal welfare, ecosystem health, and the use of biodynamic preparations.

-Biodynamic Products: Products that meet the Demeter biodynamic standards can bear the Demeter certification label. This label indicates that the product was produced using biodynamic practices and meets the rigorous standards set by Demeter USA.

-Education and Outreach: Demeter USA is involved in educational initiatives, workshops, and conferences to promote awareness and understanding of biodynamic agriculture. They provide resources and support to farmers, gardeners, and consumers interested in learning about and adopting biodynamic practices.

-Biodynamic Community: Demeter USA fosters a community of farmers, producers, and consumers who are passionate about biodynamic agriculture. They facilitate networking opportunities and knowledge sharing among members to strengthen the biodynamic movement in the United States.

Demeter USA's mission is to promote the health of the planet and its inhabitants by supporting biodynamic agriculture. Through certification, education, and advocacy, they aim to encourage sustainable and regenerative farming practices that respect nature's interconnectedness.