In the changing landscape of horticulture, sustainability and organic practices have taken center stage. As of the 2021 USDA Organic Certified Survey, 17,445 certified organic farms representing 4,895,279 acres operated in the United States. Our research aims to understand the motivations and barriers that producers encounter when transitioning from conventional to organic production. Mississippi State University partnered with the University of Nebraska – Lincoln as part of the USDA AMS Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) whose focus is on supporting mentorships, helping overcome barriers, and educating producers. Following a TOPP-sponsored workshop in November 2023, it was noted that both beginning and experienced farmers were very interested in the process of transitioning to organic production. Participants noted their decision to transition was “very much influenced” by economics, market demand, environmental concern, health, and ethics. A review of literature revealed that, while there is a significant body of research on sustainable practices, there remains a gap in understanding the challenges that producers face. To bridge this gap and address the key findings from our workshop, a 43-question national survey was developed. It addressed motivations and barriers while also gathering demographic data to contextualize responses. Producers were questioned about cover crops, crop rotation, no-till farming, and composting among other practices. Social, environmental, and technical concerns were also addressed. Responses included motivations driven by environmental consciousness as it relates to soil health, reduced synthetic chemical inputs, and the goal of improving and maintaining biodiversity on their farms reiterating our previous findings. Producers indicated that they are encouraged by the amount of information available concerning organic production practices; however, they noted a knowledge-implementation gap. Financial constraints and space limitations were also concerns. The survey functions as the inception point for a case study following a beginning farmer in Calhoun City, Mississippi as they adopt organic principles in a region where the use of these growing practices is less than common. The insights gathered from the workshop, national survey, and case study will guide the understanding of producers’ motivations and will serve to inform policymakers, extension services, and the horticulture community at large. This ongoing project and its explorations are not only timely but also critical in shaping a future where horticulture aligns with the ethos of conservation and social equity.
