In 2026, CCOF will offer two free, comprehensive training courses designed to train new Organic Grower and Handler Inspectors. These courses are ideal for qualified applicants seeking to enter the field of organic inspection or strengthen their knowledge of the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) regulations. Qualified applicants must have a minimum of 2,000 hours of experience relevant to the scope of the course they are applying for.
About the Training
CCOF’s Organic Inspector training includes classroom-style online lectures, pre-course work, and weekly assignments. Courses are designed to equip participants with the regulatory knowledge, technical skills, and professional understanding needed to begin a career as an Organic Inspector.
All sessions will be held live via Zoom from 2:30–4:30 PM PT.
Participants must:
- Attend all lectures with their camera on
- Complete all homework and pre-course assignments
- Have reliable technology to participate fully
- Pass the Final Exam with a score of at least 80%
Watch this USDA overview video to learn more about the profession: Becoming an Organic Inspector
The Organic Inspector training is supported by the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative offering free technical assistance, mentorship, and ongoing support for transitioning and existing organic producers. To learn more about TOPP support for organic transition, visit www.organictransition.org
2026 Course Details
2026 Grower Scope Course
- Lecture Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays beginning June 16, 2026
- Final Exam: July 7, 2026
- Time: 2:30–4:30 PM PT
2026 Handler Scope Course
- Lecture Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays beginning July 28, 2026
- Final Exam: August 18, 2026
- Time: 2:30–4:30 PM PT
