Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or 

removal from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. 

Please see the NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production 

and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes 

 Tuesday January 3, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Zea Sonnabend (ZS); Emily Oakley (EO); Jesse Buie (JB); Harriet Behar

(HB); Harold Austin (HA); Joelle Mosso (JM) - observer; Tom Chapman - observer; Asa Bradman - observer, 

Steve Ela - observer

Absent: Carmela Beck (CBe)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development - 

expected Fall 2016.

TBD Spr 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

ZS, EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16

May 17, 

Jul 5

Spr 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16

Aug 2,

Aug 16

Aug 30

Sept 6

Oct 4

Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014)

(PDF)

Oct 4 Fall 2017

Sodium Citrate 

2016 205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

Sep 6 Fall 2017
Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16

Oct 18

Nov 1

Fall 2017

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT Petition sent to CS 11 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 01 09 16. CS rejected 

petition 12 20 16.

Dec 20 NA

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

ZS N/A Update from IWG NA Spr 2017?

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling. Apr 5 TBD

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

ZS Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP sent 

memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Jul 5 TBD

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. Sufficiency 

due 02 27 17

Feb 2, 

Feb 23, Jul 

19

Spr 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

ZS DD on hold TBD TBD

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts)

JR/EO DD NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. On hold as Handling develops 

proposal

Feb 2, 2016; 

Dec 20, 

2016

TBD

Newspaper -

annotation change

ZS/HB NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016

Feb 21 TBD
Hydroponics/bio

ponics 

ZS, JB, 

HB, FT 

and EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

Feb 15 Spr 2017?

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

ZS Proposal

?

NA Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029)

ZS/HB NA Originated in MS. Proposal or Disc doc? Spr 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets (TR requests)

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Calcium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 Summary 

Spr 17

Chlorine dioxide

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Sodium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

EO/SB N Jan 31 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Jan 17 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jan 31 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jan 17 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

ZS/SE N Jan 31 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

ZS/SE N Jan 31 “
Humic acids 

205.601(j)

CBe/AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Jan 31 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205 601(j)

ZS/HB N Jan 17 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

ZS/HB N Jan 17 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

CBe/EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

CBe/EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

CBe/EO N Jan 17 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jan 3 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jan 17 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of December 20

• Reassign 2019 Sunset Materials from outgoing members to incoming members/schedule discussion 

dates

• Biodegradable biobased mulch film 

• Update from hydroponics sub-subcommittee

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of December 20 were approved with no changes

• 2019 sunset meeting 1 reviews:

o Chlorine Materials (Calcium Hypochlorite, Chlorine Dioxide, Sodium Hypochlorite) (FT). The 

chlorine materials were reviewed recently and the lead incorporated the questions that the 

NOSB posed in the previous review: one on alternatives, and one asking about the need for all 

three chlorine materials. The group members felt the questions were appropriate and should 

be included. The lead noted that commenters have suggested that the NOSB look at all 

sanitizers as a group, which the NOSB may do at a later time. A member informed the group 

that chlorine materials are under review at the EPA. 

o Lead Salts (FT). Lead salts are listed as a non-synthetic material that is prohibited. The lead 

noted there were no specific questions for public comment, as there is strong consensus that 

these materials should be prohibited in organic. 

o Members made some suggestions for the new NOSB members on how to begin reviews. 
o A member noted that while many of the previous reviews were well written, sticky traps could 

use some revision. ZS offered to assist the new lead with the review.

o ZS informed the group that she had been contacted by the EPA for information regarding 

copper products, as these are under re-registration review. 

• Reassign 2019 Sunset Materials/schedule discussion dates. See table above and discussion schedule 

below. 

• Biodegradable biobased mulch film. The lead circulated a draft document and summarized the 

background information, including the previous NOSB recommendation and subsequent response from 

the NOP. The group discussed the document, and the lead will make modifications based on the 

conversation. The group will discuss the document again in February. 

• Hydroponics - deferred to next call

• Other business - none 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

December 20, 2016

Ammonium nonanoate (FT). Petition sufficiency/TR request?

Marine materials (EO). Keep on agenda or not?

January 3, 2017

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029)

Hydroponics discussion document

Reassign 2019 Sunset Materials/schedule discussion dates

January 17, 2017

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029)

Hydroponics discussion document

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB)

Sticky traps/barriers (EO)

Soluble boron products (HB)

Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, 

selenium, and cobalt (HB)

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO)

Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB)

January 31, 2017 (rescheduled from Feb 7)

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Herbicides, soap-based (SB)

Boric acid (HB/JM)

Copper sulfate (SE)

Coppers, fixed (SE)

Humic acids (AB)

February 15, 2017. Additional call

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - TR sufficiency if available.

February 21, 2017

 Newspaper - annotation change

March 7, 2017

March 21, 2017

April 4, 2017

April 18, 2017

May 2, 2017

May 16, 2017
June 6, 2017

June 20, 2017

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Spring 2017 Milestones 2017 Target date

New NOSB member orientation Feb 8, 2017

NOP - Complete Spring 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 10, 2017

NOSB - Spring 2017 proposals due to NOP Feb 17, 2017

NOP - Post proposals, Publish FRN, Open public comment Mar 1, 2017

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 17, 2017 

Public comment closes Mar 30, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2017

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 7, 2017

Public comment webinar Apr 13, 2017

Spring 2017 NOSB meeting – Denver, CO Apr 19-21, 2017 (W-F)
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or 

removal from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. 

Please see the NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production 

and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday January 17, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Zea Sonnabend (ZS); Emily Oakley (EO); Jesse Buie (JB); Harriet Behar

(HB); Harold Austin (HA); Carmela Beck (CBe); Joelle Mosso (JM) - observer; Tom Chapman (TC) - observer; 

Asa Bradman (AB) - observer, Steve Ela (SE) - observer; Scott Rice (SR) - observer; Sue Baird (SB) - observer; 

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016.

TBD Spr 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

ZS, EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16

May 17, 

Jul 5

Spr 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16

Aug 2,

Aug 16

Aug 30

Sept 6

Oct 4

Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

Oct 4 Fall 2017

Sodium Citrate 

2016 205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

Sep 6 Fall 2017
Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16

Oct 18

Nov 1

Fall 2017

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT Petition sent to CS 11 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 01 09 16. CS rejected 

petition 12 20 16.

Dec 20 NA

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

ZS N/A Update from IWG NA TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling. Apr 5 TBD

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

ZS Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Jul 5 TBD

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

Feb 2, 

Feb 23, Jul 

19, Feb 15

Spr 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

ZS DD on hold TBD TBD

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts)

JR/EO DD NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. On hold as Handling develops 

proposal

Feb 2, 2016; 

Dec 20, 

2016

TBD

Newspaper -

annotation change

ZS/HB NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17

Feb 21 Spr 2017
Hydroponics/bio

ponics 

ZS, JB, 

HB, FT 

and EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

Jan 17, Feb 

15

Spr 2017?

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

ZS Proposal

?

NA Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029)

ZS/HB NA Originated in MS. Proposal or Disc doc? Spr 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets (TR requests)

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Calcium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 Summary 

Spr 17

Chlorine dioxide

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Sodium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

EO/SB N Jan 31 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Jan 17 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jan 31 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jan 17 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

ZS/SE N Jan 31 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

ZS/SE N Jan 31 “
Humic acids 

205.601(j)

CBe/AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Jan 31 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

ZS/HB N Jan 17 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

ZS/HB N Jan 17 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

CBe/EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

CBe/EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

CBe/EO N Jan 17 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jan 3 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jan 17 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of January 3

• Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029)

• 2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

o Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB)

o Sticky traps/barriers (EO)

o Soluble boron products (HB). 

o Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, 

selenium, and cobalt (HB)

o Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO)

o Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB) 

• Hydroponics proposal

• Other Business

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of January 3 approved with no changes. 

• Transition update. A member provided an update from the Exec call regarding the new administration. 

The NOP feels there is support for the organic program, but progress might be slowed. 

• Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (ZS). The lead 

summarized the draft document as well as her process for reviewing such projects, for the benefit of 

the new members. The group discussed the phrase “continuous improvement” and whether this 
provision would need to be addressed by rulemaking (vs. guidance). The lead argued for why this 

phrase should be included while not being too prescriptive. Document is in progress and not complete. 

• 2019 Sunsets

o Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB). Added info to template and included some 

questions.

o Soluble boron products (HB). The lead noted that there was very little public comment. A 

member suggested that the lead add a sentence to the summary indicating that the CS 

supports the annotation change, which was recommended by the NOSB in 2015, but has not 

yet gone through rulemaking.

o Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, 

selenium, and cobalt (HB). There was very little public comment about the micronutrients 

during the last review.

o Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB). Tobacco dust is a prohibited non-synthetic and has been 

since 1995. The lead noted it is on the hazardous substance list.

o Sticky traps/barriers (EO). The lead edited the language from the previous review to clarify the 

summary, and felt that no additional questions were necessary. 

o Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO). The lead used the previous review, which she noted as 

clear and comprehensive, and will add an additional question about the use of vitamins, as a 

result of the removal of antibiotics for crop use from the NL.

• Hydroponics proposal. Several members of the Crops Subcommittee are working on the draft 

document for hydroponics. The NOP will meet with this subgroup next week via conference call to 

provide feedback about the format and intent. The group discussed some wording in the document, 

including the phrase “biologically recalcitrant”, and references to the statute/regulations. A member 

urged the group to submit both this document and the container document at the same time. The leads 

indicated that the container document would not be completed for the April meeting. 

• Other business - none 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

January 3, 2017

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029)

Hydroponics discussion document

Reassign 2019 Sunset Materials/schedule discussion dates

January 17, 2017

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029)

Hydroponics discussion document

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB)

Sticky traps/barriers (EO)

Soluble boron products (HB)

Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, 

selenium, and cobalt (HB)

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO)

Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB)

January 31, 2017 (rescheduled from Feb 7)

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Herbicides, soap-based (SB)

Boric acid (HB/JM)

Copper sulfate (SE)

Coppers, fixed (SE)
Humic acids (AB)

February 15, 2017. Additional call

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - TR sufficiency

Hydroponics discussion document - discuss/vote

February 21, 2017

 Newspaper - annotation change - TR sufficiency

March 7, 2017

March 21, 2017

April 4, 2017

April 18, 2017

May 2, 2017

May 16, 2017

June 6, 2017

June 20, 2017

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Spring 2017 Milestones 2017 Target date

New NOSB member orientation Feb 8, 2017

NOP - Complete Spring 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 10, 2017

NOSB - Spring 2017 proposals due to NOP Feb 17, 2017

NOP - Post proposals, Publish FRN, Open public comment Mar 1, 2017

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 10, 2017 

Public comment closes Mar 30, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2017

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 7, 2017

Public comment webinar Apr 13, 2017

Spring 2017 NOSB meeting – Denver, CO Apr 19-21, 2017 (W-F)
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or 

removal from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. 

Please see the NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production 

and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday January 31, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Harriet Behar (HB); Asa Bradman (AB); Jesse Buie (JB); Steve Ela (SE); 

Emily Oakley (EO); Joelle Mosso (JM); Sue Baird (SB); Tom Chapman (TC) - observer

Absent: Dave Mortensen (DM)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016.

TBD Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

ZS, EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16

May 17, 

Jul 5

Spr 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16

Aug 2,

Aug 16

Aug 30

Sept 6

Oct 4

Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

Oct 4 Fall 2017

Sodium Citrate 

2016 205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

Sep 6 Fall 2017
Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16

Oct 18

Nov 1

Fall 2017

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT Petition sent to CS 11 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 01 09 16. CS rejected 

petition 12 20 16.

Dec 20 NA

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

ZS N/A Update from IWG NA TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling. Apr 5 TBD

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

ZS Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Jul 5 TBD

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

Feb 2, 

Feb 23, Jul 

19

TBD

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

ZS DD on hold TBD TBD

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts)

EO DD NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. On hold as Handling develops 

proposal

Feb 2, 2016; 

Dec 20, 

2016

TBD

Newspaper -

annotation change

205.601(b)(2)(i)

HB NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17

Feb 21 Spr 2017
Hydroponics/bio

ponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

Jan 17, Feb 

15

Spr 2017?

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal

?

NA Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029)

HB NA Originated in MS. Proposal or Disc doc? Feb 15 Spr 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets (TR requests)

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Calcium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 Summary 

Spr 17

Chlorine dioxide

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Sodium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jan 31 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Jan 17 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jan 31 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jan 17 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “
Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Jan 31 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jan 3 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jan 17 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of January 17

• 2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

o Herbicides, soap-based (SB) 

o Boric acid (HB/JM)

o Copper sulfate (SE) 

o Coppers, fixed (SE)

o Humic acids (AB)

• Hydroponics

• Other Business

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of January 17 approved with a correction to the entry for hydroponics 

which indicated it was a discussion document, not a proposal.

• 2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

o Herbicides, soap-based (SB). Deferred to next call

o Boric acid (HB/JM). The lead summarized the substance and the previous review. A member 

suggested the addition of questions regarding use.

o Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE). The lead summarized the material and noted that he 

included the information from the 2015 review. Use has not changed since the last review, but 
he did note that it has become critical for fireblight, since antibiotics were removed from the 

National List. 

o Humic acids (AB). The lead summarized the substance, noting that many growers consider it 

essential. The group discussed the fact that humic acid is derived from coal or coal-like 

substances. 

• Hydroponics (EO). One of the leads summarized the previous work on this topic and the group 

discussed the proposal. A member noted the complexity of this subject since there is a lack of definitive 

standards. For the benefit of the new members, a member explained that hydroponics has been 

allowed to be certified based on inputs alone, and not as a separate system. Some new members 

expressed concern that they have not had adequate time to digest the information and would prefer 

that the Subcommittee put forth a discussion document and not a proposal for vote for the Spring 

meeting. Members discussed whether a proposal on container-based production should be released at 

the same time as the proposal on hydroponics/aquaponics/aeroponics. The CS will discuss this further 

on the next call. 

• Other business. Development of a biodegradable biobased mulch discussion document will be deferred 

to the Fall 2017 meeting to allow for further discussion. 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

January 17, 2017

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029)

Hydroponics discussion document

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB)

Sticky traps/barriers (EO)

Soluble boron products (HB)

Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, 

selenium, and cobalt (HB)

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO)

Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB)

January 31, 2017 (rescheduled from Feb 7)

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Herbicides, soap-based (SB)

Boric acid (HB/JM)

Copper sulfate (SE)

Coppers, fixed (SE)

Humic acids (AB)

February 15, 2017. Additional call

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Herbicides, soap-based (SB)

Hydroponics - Discuss/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) - Discuss/vote

February 21, 2017

 Newspaper - annotation change - TR sufficiency

March 7, 2017

March 21, 2017

April 4, 2017

April 18, 2017

May 2, 2017

May 16, 2017
June 6, 2017

June 20, 2017

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Spring 2017 Milestones 2017 Target date

New NOSB member orientation Feb 8, 2017

NOP - Complete Spring 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 10, 2017

NOSB - Spring 2017 proposals due to NOP Feb 17, 2017

NOP - Post proposals, Publish FRN, Open public comment Mar 1, 2017

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 10, 2017 

Public comment closes Mar 30, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2017

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 7, 2017

Public comment webinar Apr 13, 2017

Spring 2017 NOSB meeting – Denver, CO Apr 19-21, 2017 (W-F)
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or 

removal from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. 

Please see the NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production 

and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday February 15, 2017 3:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Harriet Behar (HB); Asa Bradman (AB); Jesse Buie (JB); Steve Ela (SE); 

Emily Oakley (EO); Joelle Mosso (JM); Dave Mortensen (DM); Sue Baird (SB); Ashley Swaffar (AS)

Absent: Devon Pattillo (DP)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Jessica Walden (JW); Paul Lewis (PL)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17

TBD Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017

May 17, 

Jul 5

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16

Aug 2,

Aug 16

Aug 30

Sept 6

Oct 4

Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

Oct 4 Fall 2017
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

Sep 6 Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16

Oct 18

Nov 1

Fall 2017

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

ZS N/A Update from IWG NA TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling. Apr 5 TBD

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Jul 5 TBD

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

Feb 2, 

Feb 23, Jul 

19, Feb 21

TBD

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

ZS DD on hold TBD TBD

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO DD NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16.

Feb 15 Spr 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17

Feb 21 Fall 2017
Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

DD Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

Jan 17, Feb 

15

Spr 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal NA Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029)

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Feb 15 Spr 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets (TR requests)

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Calcium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 Summary 

Spr 17

Chlorine dioxide

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Sodium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Feb 15 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Jan 17 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jan 31 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jan 17 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “
Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Jan 31 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jan 3 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jan 17 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of January 31

• 2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

o Herbicides, soap-based (SB) 

• Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB) - Discuss/vote

• Marine Algae (EO) – Discuss/vote 

• Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics - Discuss/vote

• Other Business

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of January 31 were approved with a minor change to a reference to a 

member as the lead author. 

• 2019 Sunsets:

o Herbicides, soap-based (SB). The lead summarized the material and its uses. Soap based 

herbicides was reviewed in 2015, at which time the NOSB recommended relisting. The 

Subcommittee has included two questions for the first posting regarding usage and 

alternatives.

• Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029). The lead summarized the 

draft proposal regarding the addition of items to the NOP policy guidance 5019 on commercial 

availability, use and purchase. The members discussed the inclusion of planting stock in the document, 

which the lead will add. The Subcommittee moved to a vote. 
Motion to accept the amendments to the NOP guidance document regarding the use of organic 

seed (NOP 5029). The motion in the proposal is stated as follows: “Motion to accept all additions as 

described in the Proposal section above, to both the National Organic Program Regulation and the 

National Organic Program 5029 Guidance.”

Motion by: FT

Seconded by: JB 

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 9 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• Marine Algae Listings on the National List (EO). The lead summarized the draft proposal noting that 

both the Crops and Handling Subcommittees are submitting proposals on the same topic. The goal of 

the proposal is to provide clarity about what marine materials are on the list. While the majority of the 

materials on the National List are handling materials, there is one Crops material. A member asked 

about the classification of marine algae as synthetic. 

Motion to annotate the marine algae listings at 205.601 as follows: 

(j) As plant or soil amendments.

(1) Aquatic plant extracts (other than hydrolyzed) derived from brown seaweeds, class 

Phaeophyceae. –Extraction process is limited to the use of potassium hydroxide or sodium 

hydroxide; solvent amount use is limited to that amount necessary for extraction.

Motion by: EO

Seconded by: JB 

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 9 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics. The group discussed the history of this complex topic and the 

reasons why the NOSB is addressing it at this time. The previous recommendation (2010) was not 

specific or clear enough, and the NOP was not able to implement the recommendation. Therefore the 

NOP asked that the NOSB re-review it. The group discussed the process for voting on this document, 

noting that it is a discussion document, and a vote was taken to move it out of Subcommittee to the full 

Board. 

Motion to accept the discussion document on Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics.

Motion by: FT

Seconded by: EO

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 6 No: 0 Abstain: 2 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Other Business. 

o The group discussed the possibility of hosting a panel on hydroponics at the Spring meeting, as 

well as inviting guest speakers to address them on a future Crops call. Members were 

enthusiastic about gathering as much information and feedback as possible, and supported the 

idea of having guests on the calls, but felt a panel was not necessary or useful. Additionally, 

members felt it would be difficult to convene a panel with the appropriate composition, given 

that the discussion is one of a philosophical nature. One member suggested devoting a 

considerable amount of time at the April meeting for the Board to discuss this topic as a group 

and in a public venue, which the group was very supportive of. 

o The petitioner for biodegradable biomulch has contacted the NOP about providing extra 

comments to the Crops Subcommittee. Specifically they wanted to address some questions not 
addressed in the technical report. The petitioners will submit public comment to the comment 

docket.

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

January 31, 2017 (rescheduled from Feb 7)

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Herbicides, soap-based (SB) 

Boric acid (HB/JM)

Copper sulfate (SE) 

Coppers, fixed (SE)

Humic acids (AB)

February 15, 2017. Additional call

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Herbicides, soap-based (SB)

Hydroponics - Discuss/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) - Discuss/vote

February 21, 2017

 Newspaper - annotation change (HB) - TR sufficiency

Biodegradable Biobased Mulch (HB/AB) - discuss next steps

March 7, 2017

March 21, 2017

April 4, 2017

April 18, 2017

May 2, 2017

May 16, 2017

June 6, 2017

June 20, 2017

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Spring 2017 Milestones 2017 Target date

New NOSB member orientation Feb 8, 2017

NOP - Complete Spring 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 10, 2017

NOSB - Spring 2017 proposals due to NOP Feb 17, 2017
NOP - Post proposals, Publish FRN, Open public comment Mar 1, 2017

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 10, 2017 

Public comment closes Mar 30, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2017

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 7, 2017

Public comment webinar Apr 13, 2017

Spring 2017 NOSB meeting – Denver, CO Apr 19-21, 2017 (W-F)
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday March 7, 2017 3:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Harriet Behar (HB); Asa Bradman (AB); Jesse Buie (JB); Steve Ela (SE); 

Emily Oakley (EO); Joelle Mosso (JM); Dave Mortensen (DM); Sue Baird (SB); Tom Chapman (TC) - observer; 

Scott Rice (SR) - observer

Absent: Ashley Swaffar (AS)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17

Mar 21 Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017

May 17, 

Jul 5

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16

Aug 2,

Aug 16

Aug 30

Sept 6

Oct 4

Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

Oct 4 Fall 2017
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

Sep 6 Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16

Oct 18

Nov 1

Fall 2017

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

ZS N/A Update from IWG NA TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling. Apr 5 TBD

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Jul 5 TBD

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

Feb 2, 

Feb 23, Jul 

19, Mar 7

TBD

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

ZS DD on hold TBD TBD

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO DD NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16.

Feb 15 Spr 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17.

Mar 7, 

Mar 21

Fall 2017
Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

DD Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

Jan 17, Feb 

15

Spr 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal NA Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029)

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Feb 15 Spr 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets (TR requests)

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Calcium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 Summary 

Spr 17

Chlorine dioxide

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Sodium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Feb 15 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Jan 17 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jan 31 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jan 17 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “
Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Jan 31 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jan 3 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jan 17 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of February 15

• Newspaper - annotation change (HB) - TR sufficiency

• Biodegradable Biobased Mulch (HB/AB) - discuss next steps

• Hydroponics-further discussion if time allows and members wish

• Other Business

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of February 15 were approved with a correction to soap-based herbicides.

• Newspaper - annotation change (HB). The previous Crops Subcommittee requested a TR because a 

question arose about the inks that are being used in newspaper. The lead summarized the information 

in the TR, and the Crops Subcommittee determined the TR to be sufficient. Members had an initial 

discussion about the current prohibition of newspaper with colored inks, the prevalence of colored 

inks, and current use of newspaper in organic production. The CS will discuss how to proceed during 

the next call. 

• Biodegradable Biobased Mulch (HB/AB). The group determined TR sufficiency on the last call and 

proceeded to discuss the next steps. Currently Biodegradable Biobased Mulch is undergoing review for 

sunset, but the Crops Subcommittee also has a work agenda item to review the listing. The lead 

explained the history of this material, noting that it was reviewed at the request of the NOP. The NOP 

received a request from the manufacturer to present some additional information to the 
Subcommittee, but the group agreed that any additional communication from the petitioner should be 

conveyed in writing via the public comment docket and/or through public verbal comments.

• Research Priorities. The group discussed assigning a liaison to the Materials Subcommittee for the 

Research Priorities, and also discussed the process of developing research priorities.

• Marine algae proposal (EO). A member received feedback from a stakeholder regarding the marine 

algae document that will be brought forth at the spring meeting. Although the proposals have not yet 

been posted for public comment, the CS notes indicated that the document will present nomenclature 

only and not address sustainability, and the stakeholder wanted to emphasize the need to include

sustainability in any future discussions or documents. The lead explained that the initial proposal 

included this topic, but it became very complex and the CS made the decision to not include it in the 

proposal. 

• Hydroponics. Deferred to next call. 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

February 15, 2017. Additional call

2019 Sunsets: discuss potential questions for public comment for first posting

Herbicides, soap-based (SB) 

Hydroponics - Discuss/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) - Discuss/vote

February 21, 2017 - cancelled 

March 7, 2017

Newspaper (HB)- annotation change (HB) - TR sufficiency

Biodegradable Biobased Mulch (HB/AB) - discuss next steps

March 21, 2017

 Newspaper (HB) - Discuss possible annotation change (HB). 

 Hydroponics (ALL) - Discuss if time allows and members wish

 Fatty alcohols (JB) - TR sufficiency

April 4, 2017

April 18, 2017

May 2, 2017

May 16, 2017

June 6, 2017

June 20, 2017

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Spring 2017 Milestones 2017 Target date
New NOSB member orientation Feb 8, 2017

NOP - Complete Spring 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 10, 2017

NOSB - Spring 2017 proposals due to NOP Feb 17, 2017

NOP - Post proposals, Publish FRN, Open public comment Mar 1, 2017

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 10, 2017 

Public comment closes Mar 30, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2017

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 7, 2017

Public comment webinar Apr 13, 2017

Spring 2017 NOSB meeting – Denver, CO Apr 19-21, 2017 (W-F)
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday March 21, 2017 3:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Sue Baird (SB); Harriet Behar (HB); Asa 

Bradman (AB); Jesse Buie (JB); Steve Ela (SE); Joelle Mosso (JM); Dave Mortensen (DM); Scott Rice (SR) -

observer

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Jessica Walden (JW)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner

Mar 21 Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17

May 17, 

Jul 5

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16

Aug 2,

Aug 16

Aug 30

Sept 6

Oct 4

Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

Oct 4 Fall 2017
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

Sep 6 Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16

Oct 18

Nov 1

Fall 2017

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

ZS N/A Update from IWG NA TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling. Apr 5 TBD

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Jul 5 TBD

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

Feb 2, 

Feb 23, Jul 

19, Mar 7

TBD

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

ZS DD on hold TBD TBD

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO DD NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16.

Feb 15 Spr 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17.

Mar 7, 

Mar 21

Fall 2017
Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

DD Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

Jan 17, Feb 

15

Spr 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal NA Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029)

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Feb 15 Spr 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets (TR requests)

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Calcium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 Summary 

Spr 17

Chlorine dioxide

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Sodium 

hypochlorite 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 “

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Feb 15 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Jan 17 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jan 31 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jan 17 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “
Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Jan 31 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jan 3 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jan 17 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of March 7, 2017

• Fatty alcohols (JB) - TR sufficiency

• Newspaper (HB) - Discuss possible annotation change (HB). 

• Hydroponics (ALL) - Discuss if time allows and members wish

• Other Business

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of March 7, 2017 were approved with no changes

• Fatty alcohols (JB). The lead summarized the petition and the group discussed various aspects of it and 

the TR. Fatty alcohols was previously petitioned, and is being re-petitioned as a plant growth regulator. 

Fatty alcohols is registered with the EPA specifically for use in tobacco plants, however, the petitioner is 

requesting use to chemically remove suckers from organic crops, which the CS feels is too broad. While 

the petitioner is asking approval for use in organic crops, the TR focuses on its current use on tobacco 

plants. A member noted that there is organic tobacco. The CS also discussed classification of this 

material as synthetic, the process by which it is manufactured, and if there is a need in the organic 

community for this material, as there are alternatives. The Crops Subcommittee feels that they cannot 

move forward without additional questions to the petitioner. JB will write questions and send them to 

FT for submission to the NOP so that NOP can go back to the petitioner.

• Newspaper (HB). The group discussed the annotation and whether or not to remove glossy ink and 

colors. At this time, the CS feels the annotation should remain. Newspaper will sunset in 2021, so the 
CS may look at this as part of the next review. A member noted that since the CS just received a TR, it 

would not be useful to request another, but they may perhaps request a limited scope TR. The 

members also discussed the inclusion of questions for the next review, regarding changes in technology 

for separation of newspaper with and without colored inks and dyes. 

• Hydroponics (ALL). The group discussed hydroponics and container growing in general. A member 

suggested that folks review information on container growing, including the fall 2016 NOSB document, 

since container growing will likely be addressed at the fall 2017 meeting in Jacksonville. There are many 

aspects that need to be considered such as water recycling, and recalcitrant materials. HB will send out 

an email with links to various docs. 

• Other Business. None

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

March 7, 2017

Newspaper (HB)- annotation change (HB) - TR sufficiency

Biodegradable Biobased Mulch (HB/AB) - discuss next steps

March 21, 2017

 Newspaper (HB) - Discuss possible annotation change (HB). 

 Hydroponics (ALL) - Discuss if time allows and members wish

 Fatty alcohols (JB) - TR sufficiency

April 4, 2017

April 18, 2017

May 2, 2017

May 16, 2017

June 6, 2017

June 20, 2017

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Spring 2017 Milestones 2017 Target date

New NOSB member orientation Feb 8, 2017

NOP - Complete Spring 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 10, 2017

NOSB - Spring 2017 proposals due to NOP Feb 17, 2017

NOP - Post proposals, Publish FRN, Open public comment Mar 1, 2017
Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 10, 2017 

Public comment closes Mar 30, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2017

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 7, 2017

Public comment webinar Apr 13, 2017

Spring 2017 NOSB meeting – Denver, CO Apr 19-21, 2017 (W-F)
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday April 4, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Sue Baird (SB); Harriet Behar (HB); Jesse 

Buie (JB); Steve Ela (SE); Joelle Mosso (JM); Scott Rice (SR) - observer; Tom Chapman (TC) - observer

Absent: Asa Bradman (AB); Dave Mortensen (DM)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner

Mar 21 Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

May 17, 

Jul 5,

April 4

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16

Aug 2,

Aug 16

Aug 30

Sept 6

Oct 4

Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

Oct 4 Fall 2017
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

Sep 6 Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16

Oct 18

Nov 1

Fall 2017

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

ZS N/A Update from IWG NA TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling. Apr 5 TBD

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Jul 5 TBD

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

Feb 2, 

Feb 23, Jul 

19, Mar 7

TBD

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

ZS DD on hold TBD TBD

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO DD NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16.

Feb 15 Spr 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17.

Mar 7, 

Mar 21

Fall 2017
Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

DD Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

Jan 17,

Feb 15

Spr 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Disc 

doc/Prop

osal?

NA Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029)

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Feb 15 Spr 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets (TR requests)

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jan 3 Summary 

Spr 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Feb 15 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Jan 17 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jan 31 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jan 17 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jan 31 “
Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Jan 31 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jan 17 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jan 17 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jan 3 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jan 17 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of March 21, 2017

• Anaerobic digest TR sufficiency (EO)

• Discuss Public Comment

• Other Business

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of March 21, 2017 were approved with no changes.

• Anaerobic digestate TR sufficiency (EO). The lead introduced the topic, and the group discussed the 

material and the technical report. The discussion covered several topics, including food safety risks, 

plant-based anaerobic digestate vs. manure-based anaerobic digestate, and compost. The Crops

Subcommittee originally asked 6 questions for the TR, and as a result of today’s conversation, the CS 

has determined they would like to request some additional detail in the TR. The TR sufficiency 

determination will be delayed until after the additional information is provided by the contractor. 

• Discuss Public Comment. The CS Chair explained the process for presenting materials at the Spring 

meeting. Members discussed comments for various topics such as the marine algae proposal. 

• Other Business. None

• The meeting was adjourned 
Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

March 21, 2017

 Newspaper (HB) - Discuss possible annotation change (HB). 

 Hydroponics (ALL) - Discuss if time allows and members wish

 Fatty alcohols (JB) - TR sufficiency

April 4, 2017

May 2, 2017

May 16, 2017

June 6, 2017

June 20, 2017

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Spring 2017 Milestones 2017 Target date

New NOSB member orientation Feb 8, 2017

NOP - Complete Spring 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 10, 2017

NOSB - Spring 2017 proposals due to NOP Feb 17, 2017

NOP - Post proposals, Publish FRN, Open public comment Mar 1, 2017

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 10, 2017 

Public comment closes Mar 30, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2017

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 7, 2017

Public comment webinar Apr 13, 2017

Spring 2017 NOSB meeting – Denver, CO Apr 19-21, 2017 (W-F)
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday May 2, 2017 3:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Sue Baird (SB); Harriet Behar (HB); Jesse 

Buie (JB); Steve Ela (SE); Joelle Mosso (JM); Asa Bradman (AB); Dave Mortensen (DM); Scott Rice (SR) -

observer; Tom Chapman (TC) - observer

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17

TBD Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Fall 2017
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

TBD Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in contracting 

TBD Fall 2017

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling. Update? Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

TBD TBD

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

TBD Fall 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

ZS DD On hold TBD TBD

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017
Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Update NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. On hold. 

TBD Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

May 2, Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal

?

TBD Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029)

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N May 16 Review

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Aug 1 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “
Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N May 16 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N May 16 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 6 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 6 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 6 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N May 16 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of April 4, 2017

• Fatty alcohols - TR sufficiency (JB)

• Schedule discussion dates for petitions and sunset materials

• Hydroponics and container documents - Preliminary discussions for fall

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of April 4, 2017 were approved with no changes

• Fatty alcohols (JB). The TR was found sufficient. The group discussed the petition and the TR, including 

the source materials used to produce the substance. Members also discussed whether its use should be 

limited to tobacco in their proposal. The NOP provided some guidance about options for reviewing this 

material at the Fall NOSB meeting, as the petitioner has requested use beyond what is currently 

approved by EPA; it is currently approved for use only on tobacco. The lead noted that this material is 

synthetic. The CS will continue discussions on the May 16 call. 

• Discussion dates for petitions and sunset materials. The group assigned dates for the sunset reviews

and briefly discussed several other substances and projects on the work agenda. See table above and 

schedule below for dates.
o EPA List 4 Inerts annotation change. Four CS members volunteered to be co-leads on this topic: 

HB/EO/DM/AB.

o Contamination Issues in Farm Inputs. A member noted the sense of urgency stakeholders have 

to get some guidance and feedback on this topic. The group discussed the history of the 

lawsuit on compost guidance, and the status of this project, for the benefit of the new 

members. Members discussed risk-based testing of compost based on compost feedstocks.

o Biodegradable biobased mulch. Members discussed the development of a discussion document

for the fall meeting. The lead would like to discuss this topic with other members of the NOSB 

to get a better sense about the direction for this project. 

o Prohibition of NPEs in inerts annotation change. The CS Chair will follow up with former lead 

and the NOP to determine a path forward.

o Marine materials (marine algae and extracts) on the National List. The lead continues to discuss 

this topic with stakeholders and seek additional information, and will report back to the CS in a 

couple of weeks. 

o Newspaper. This review is currently on hold, and the CS discussed how to proceed. At this time 

the CS is unsure if there is a path forward and may remove it from the work agenda. 

• Hydroponics and container documents - Preliminary discussions for fall. The group discussed various 

aspects of these two topics as they prepare for the fall meeting. A member suggested having additional 

discussions with other Board members, as they did at the NOSB meeting in Denver. The CS Chair asked 

about inviting speakers onto the CS calls for additional information, and will collect names of some 

potential speakers. The group also explored opportunities for site visits and tours, both as individuals

and as a Board. Some members have already explored the possibility of touring operations on their 

own in their immediate area. 

• Other Business. None

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

April 4, 2017

May 2, 2017

May 16, 2017

Fatty alcohols (JB) - Discuss proposal

Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Lead salts (FT) Discuss proposal/vote

Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE) Discuss proposal/vote

June 6, 2017

Herbicides, soap-based (SB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Sticky traps/barriers (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

June 20, 2017

Boric acid (HB/JM) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Micronutrients: Soluble boron products, etc. (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017
October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~May 5, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 17, 2017

NOP - Complete Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 

2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday May 16, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Harriet Behar (HB); Jesse Buie (JB); Steve 

Ela (SE); Joelle Mosso (JM); Asa Bradman (AB); Dave Mortensen (DM); Sue Baird (SB); Ashley Swaffar (AS) -

observer

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17

TBD Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Fall 2017
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

TBD Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in contracting 

TBD Fall 2017

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17

May 16,

Jun 6

Fall 2017

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling.

May move to Materials Subcommittee for 

continued work. 

Update? Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

TBD Fall 2017

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

TBD Fall 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

DM/EO DD On hold TBD Fall 2017

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017
Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Update NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. On hold. 

TBD Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

May 2,

May 30

Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal TBD Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Aug 1 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “
Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 6 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 6 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 6 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of May 2, 2017

• Inerts Working Group Update (DM/EO)

• Ammonium Nonanoate petition resubmission (FT)

• Research priorities (EO)

• Fatty alcohols (JB) - Discuss proposal

• Hydroponics update (AS)

• Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

• Lead salts (FT) Discuss proposal/vote 

• Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE) Discuss proposal/vote

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of May 2, 2017 approved with no changes.

• Inerts Working Group Update (DM/EO). Several Crops members had a conversation with a former 

NOSB member and member of the Inerts Working Group, who passed along information from the 

previous work on NPEs and Inerts, and to discuss next steps. She noted that the NOSB recommended 

an annotation change in the fall of 2015 that has not yet gone through rulemaking. The current 
members will continue working on this, with the acknowledgement that the inerts working group has 

not met, and the status of the SCIL program at EPA is not known at this time. 

• Ammonium Nonanoate petition resubmission (FT). Ammonium Nonanoate was originally petitioned in 

2010, and the CS rejected it for being incompatible with a system of organic agriculture. It was repetitioned in November 2016 and the CS again rejected it, for lack of new information addressing the 

issues identified by the 2010 Board. It was then re-petitioned in May 2017. SB volunteered to co-lead 

this review. The CS discussed the substance, including comments received at the recent NOSB meeting 

on soap-based herbicides (under sunset review), and the implications for no-till and reduced till organic 

systems. The CS will determine petition sufficiency and the need for a TR during the next call. 

• Research priorities (EO). The lead reminded folks that the Research Priorities are due to the Materials 

Subcommittee by August. She asked that members review last year’s priorities and determine if the list 

needs modifications. 

• Fatty alcohols (JB). The group discussed the draft proposal and reviewed the petitioned use. Members 

had suggestions for additions and the lead will incorporate them and recirculate the draft for further 

discussion. 

• Hydroponics update (AS). The lead discussed the formation of a small working group made up of a 

subset of NOSB members who may be able to visit various hydroponic and container operations. The 

NOP supports this idea, and is discussing how it can facilitate. Many members expressed an interest in 

visiting operations in their respective areas, and then sharing that information with the rest of the 

Subcommittee. A member suggested the Crops subcommittee hold an additional call to talk about this 

topic. MA will schedule an extra call on May 30 at 2:00 pm. 

• Chlorine Materials (calcium hypochlorite, chlorine dioxide, sodium hypochlorite) (FT). Deferred to 

next call due to lack of time.

• Lead salts (FT). Deferred to next call due to lack of time.

• Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE). Deferred to next call due to lack of time.

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

May 2, 2017

May 16, 2017

Fatty alcohols (JB) - Discuss proposal

Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Lead salts (FT) Discuss proposal/vote

Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE) Discuss proposal/vote

June 6, 2017

Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Lead salts (FT) Discuss proposal/vote

Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE) Discuss proposal/vote

Ammonium Nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). Petition sufficiency/determine need for TR

Herbicides, soap-based (SB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Sticky traps/barriers (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

June 20, 2017

Boric acid (HB/JM) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Micronutrients: Soluble boron products, etc. (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017
Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~May 5, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 17, 2017

NOP - Complete Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 

2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday May 30, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Harriet Behar (HB); Steve Ela (SE); Joelle 

Mosso (JM); Asa Bradman (AB); Dave Mortensen (DM); Sue Baird (SB); Ashley Swaffar (AS) - observer; Dan 

Seitz (DS)- observer; Steve Ela (SE); A-dae Briones (AB) - observer; Lisa de Lima (LD) - observer; Tom 

Chapman (TC) - observer

Absent: Jesse Buie (JB)

Staff: Miles McEvoy (MM); Bridget McElroy; Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17

TBD Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Fall 2017
Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Fall 2017

Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

TBD Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in contracting 

TBD Fall 2017

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17

May 16,

Jun 6

Fall 2017

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB May move to Materials Subcommittee for 

continued work. 

Update? Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

TBD Fall 2017
Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

TBD Fall 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

ZS DM/E

O

DD TBD Fall 2017

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Update NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. On hold. 

TBD Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

May 2,

May 30

Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal TBD Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 NA Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting
Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Aug 1 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 6 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 6 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 6 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion
Agenda

• Hydroponics (All)

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Hydroponics 

o Update. The NOP Deputy Administrator provided an overview of the recent work on 

hydroponics/aquaponics/containers beginning with the 2010 NOSB recommendation and 

including an overview of the Hydroponic/Aquaponic Task Force established in 2015. The Task 

Force report was delivered to the Crops Subcommittee in August 2016, and the Subcommittee 

prepared a discussion document for the Fall 2016 Board meeting. Members asked several 

questions, including one about the process for implementing NOSB recommendations. The 

Deputy Administrator noted that, as with any NOSB recommendation, the NOP would evaluate

a recommendation and determine next steps. 

o Discussion. The Crops Subcommittee discussed the path forward for the hydroponics project. 

Members supported the idea of sharing information with the rest of the Board members as 

work progresses. The Subcommittee’s goal is to gather information from all segments of the 

community and to seek compromise among Board members with regard to this topic. A 

member noted that container growing is an area where much of the community has invested, 

and perhaps the focus should be on standardization with the organic regulation. 

o The Crops Subcommittee will add an extra call each month to continue this discussion, 

beginning with June 22. 

o Members also discussed the possibility of inviting experts to speak on future Crops calls. 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

May 16, 2017

Fatty alcohols (JB) - Discuss proposal

Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Lead salts (FT) Discuss proposal/vote

Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE) Discuss proposal/vote

May 30, 2017 additional call

Hydroponics

June 6, 2017

Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Lead salts (FT) Discuss proposal/vote

Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE) Discuss proposal/vote

Ammonium Nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). Petition sufficiency/determine need for TR

Herbicides, soap-based (SB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Sticky traps/barriers (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

June 20, 2017

Boric acid (HB/JM) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Micronutrients: Soluble boron products, etc. (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote

July 18, 2017

August 1, 2017

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote 
August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~May 5, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 17, 2017

NOP - Complete Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 

2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

 National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes 

 Tuesday June 6, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Jesse Buie (JB); Steve Ela (SE); Joelle 

Mosso (JM); Asa Bradman (AB); Sue Baird (SB); Ashley Swaffar (AS) - observer; Scott Rice (SR) 

Absent: Dave Mortensen (DM); Harriet Behar (HB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development - 

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6 Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Fall 2017
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

TBD Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development

TBD Fall 2017

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17

May 16,

Jun 6, 

Fall 2017

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA Spr 2017

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Update Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling.

May move to Materials Subcommittee for 

continued work. 

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Discussio

n doc

Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

TBD Fall 2017

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

TBD Fall 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

DM/EO DD TBD Fall 2017

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017
Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Update NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. On hold. 

TBD Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB,

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

May 2,

May 30, 

Jun 22

Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal Jun 22 Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017 

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed, 

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Aug 1 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “
Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20 “

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20 “

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20 “

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of May 16, 2017

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of May 30, 2017

• Anaerobic Digestate TR Sufficiency

• Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

• Lead salts (FT) Discuss proposal/vote 

• Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE) Discuss proposal/vote

• Herbicides, soap-based (SB) - Discuss proposal/vote

• Sticky traps/barriers (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

• Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

• Ammonium nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). Petition sufficiency/determine need for TR

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of May 16, 2017 approved with no changes.

• Crops Subcommittee notes of May 30, 2017 approved with no changes.

• Containers. The group had a brief conversation about reaching out to container growers to provide 

the Board with some additional information.
• Anaerobic Digestate (EO). The group discussed the additional information provided by the TR 

contractor that the Crops Subcomm requested. The TR was found sufficient and the Crops 

Subcommittee will proceed with its review.

• Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT). The lead 

summarized the uses of chlorine materials and the public comment from the previous posting, 

including potential health hazards. Previously, commenters suggested that all sanitizers be 

reviewed as a group by the NOSB. The Handling Subcommittee is interested in doing this, but will 

not undertake it during the sunset review. Members discussed how different types of sanitizers 

may be necessary to accommodate differences in equipment/facility design and to allow for 

rotation of sanitizers to ensure effectiveness. 

Motion to remove chlorine materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) 

from §205.601(a) 

Motion by: FT

Seconded by: EO 

Additional discussion: A member noted that these materials are essential for food safety

Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0 

• Lead salts (FT). The lead summarized the uses of the substance, noting that lead salts are on the 

prohibited list. The Subcommittee supports continued prohibition.

Motion to remove lead salts from §205.602 

Motion by: FT

Seconded by: EO 

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0 

• Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE). The lead summarized the materials and the feedback from 

public comment regarding residue testing at harvest. The Crops members agreed that it would be 

difficult at best for certifiers to inspect at harvest to verify whether residue remained. 

Motion to remove coppers, fixed, from §205.601. 

Motion by: SE

Seconded by: EO 

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0 

Motion to remove copper sulfate, from §205.601. 

Motion by: SE

Seconded by: FT 

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0 
• Herbicides, soap-based (SB). The lead summarized the public comments. The majority of 

commenters were in favor of retaining soap-based herbicides on the National List, and indicated 

that they are essential.

Motion to remove herbicides, soap-based, from §205.601 

Motion by: SB

Seconded by: JB

Additional discussion: Members discussed the annotation that allows the use of soap-based 

herbicides for weed control around the farmstead but not for use in production areas (except for 

ornamental crops). The lead noted that commenters stated it was essential and effective, and 

provides farmers with a necessary tool for weed control.

Yes: 0 No: 5 Abstain: 2 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0 

• Sticky traps/barriers (EO). The lead reviewer added a summary of Spring public comment to the 

review. There was broad support from members and stakeholders to retain sticky traps on the 

National List, although some commenters were concerned that non-target animals may be caught 

in traps. A member added that it would not be realistic or practical to add an annotation about

non-target animals. 

Motion to remove Sticky traps/barriers from §205.601(e) 

Motion by: EO

Seconded by: SB 

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0 

• Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO). The lead summarized the materials. A certifier and former 

NOSB member indicated that B1 is not widely used, which precipitated a question about the 

feasibility of removing one of the vitamins, without removing the entire group. NOP confirmed that 

the materials can be separated for purposes of voting. The lead suggested postponing the vote so 

others could reread the TR. 

• Ammonium nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). A petition for Ammonium nonanoate was 

found insufficient last fall, and the petitioner resubmitted the petition in May 2017. The group 

briefly discussed the background, EPA assessment documents, efficacy, and alternatives. The CS will 

discuss this further on a future call.

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

May 30, 2017 additional call

Hydroponics

June 6, 2017
Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Lead salts (FT) Discuss proposal/vote 

Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE) Discuss proposal/vote

Ammonium nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). Petition sufficiency/determine need for TR

Herbicides, soap-based (SB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Sticky traps/barriers (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

June 20, 2017

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Boric acid (HB/JM) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Micronutrients: Soluble boron products, etc. (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Assign leads to 2020 sunset materials

Ammonium nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). Petition sufficiency/determine need for TR

June 22, 2017 - Additional call

 Hydroponics/Container growing

July 18, 2017

Research Priorities

July 25, 2017 - Additional call

August 1, 2017

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~Apr 27, 2017, May 30, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 17, 2017

NOP - Complete Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018 

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed, 

Voted

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol

Isopropanol 

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate 

205.601(a) 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) 1995 TAP “

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

2014 TR “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

1995 TAP “

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

2014 TR

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) 2005 TR

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) 1995 TAP; 2006 TR

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) 2010 TAP; 2014 TR

Ethylene 205.601(k) 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) none

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) 1995 TAP
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday June 20, 2017 2:00 pm ET

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Jesse Buie (JB); Steve Ela (SE); Joelle 

Mosso (JM); Sue Baird (SB); Dave Mortensen (DM); Harriet Behar (HB); Tom Chapman (TC)

Absent: Asa Bradman (AB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Lisa Brines (LB)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6 Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Fall 2017
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

TBD Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development

TBD Fall 2017

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17. CS rejected 

petition due to lack of new information.

May 16,

Jun 6,

Jun 20

Fall 2017

Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide)

AB Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 07 17.

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA Spr 2018

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Update Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling.

Moved to Materials Subcommittee 06 13 

17 for continued work. 

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Discussio

n doc

Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

TBD Fall 2017

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

TBD Fall 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

DM/EO DD TBD Fall 2017
Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Jul 18 Fall 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Update NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. On hold. 

TBD Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

May 2,

May 30,

Jun 22

Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal Jun 22 Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Aug 1 “
Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jul 18 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve Crops Subcommittee notes of June 6, 2017

• Assign leads to 2020 sunset materials 

• Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

• Boric acid (HB/JM) - Discuss proposal/vote 

• Micronutrients: Soluble boron products, etc. (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

• Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote

• Ammonium nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). Petition sufficiency/determine need for TR

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Crops Subcommittee notes of June 6, 2017 approved with no changes.
• 2020 sunset materials. Members volunteered to take the lead on the 2020 sunset substances. See

table below for assignments. 

• Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO). The group discussed the question about removing one of 

the vitamins (Vitamin B1) without the others. The question arose because based on the TR and 

feedback from several stakeholders, Vitamin B1 is not effective and is the least likely of the three to 

be used. The group discussed its possible use in blended fertilizers, and the implications for 

manufactures if it were removed. There was very little public comment in any of the sunset 

reviews. The lead will seek more information from one of the Material Review Organizations, and 

the CS will defer vote.

• Boric acid (HB/JM). The co-leads indicated that public commenters were mostly in support of 

renewing, and the HS members are supportive of retaining boric acid on the list. One commenter 

suggested an annotation change, which would have to be proposed separately from the sunset 

review. 

Motion to remove boric acid from §205.601(e)

Motion by: HB

Seconded by: FT

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 8 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Micronutrients: Soluble boron products, etc. (HB). The lead summarized the public comment from 

the last posting. There is an annotation change currently in progress.

Motion to remove micronutrients: Soluble boron products from §205.601(j)

Motion by: HB

Seconded by: JB

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 8 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB). The lead summarized public comment regarding the use of 

tobacco dust as a soil amendment. The members discussed the distinction between tobacco dust 

(this listing) and other tobacco crop byproducts, which could be allowed as compost feedstock or 

tilled back into the soil. The CS may consider an annotation change and may request that it be 

added to the work agenda. 

Motion to remove tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) from §205.602(i)

Motion by: HB

Seconded by: JM

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 8 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Ammonium nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). The group discussed the resubmission of 

the petition for ammonium nonanoate, noting that in 2008 it failed two of the three OFPA criteria. 

Based on its current review, the HS decided to reject the petition based on lack of new information 

that would counter the previous determination that ammonium nonanoate is incompatible with a 
system of sustainable agriculture. A member reminded the group that input substitution is not the 

guiding philosophy of organic agriculture. A holistic systems approach and sustainability are. 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

June 6, 2017

Chlorine Materials (Calcium hypochlorite, Chlorine dioxide, Sodium hypochlorite) (FT) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Lead salts (FT) Discuss proposal/vote 

Copper sulfate, Coppers, fixed (SE) Discuss proposal/vote

Ammonium nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). Petition sufficiency/determine need for TR

Herbicides, soap-based (SB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Sticky traps/barriers (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

June 20, 2017

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Boric acid (HB/JM) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Micronutrients: Soluble boron products, etc. (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Assign leads to 2020 sunset materials

Ammonium nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). Petition sufficiency/determine need for TR

June 22, 2017 - Additional call

 Hydroponics/Container growing

July 18, 2017

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Micronutrients: Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, 

 molybdenum, selenium, and cobalt 205.601(j)

Anaerobic Digestate - discuss proposal

Research Priorities (discuss proposal/vote)

Fatty alcohols - discuss proposal

Marine materials (EO)

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) - assign lead to new petition

July 25, 2017 - Additional call

 Hydroponics/Container growing

August 1, 2017

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol

Isopropanol

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate

205.601(a) EO 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB 2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB 1995 TAP “

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM 2014 TR “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB 1995 TAP “

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~Apr 27, 2017, May 30, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 18, 2017

NOSB public teleconference July 25, 2017 (tentative)

NOP - Draft Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE 2014 TR

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB 2005 TR

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB 1995 TAP; 2006 TR

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE 2010 TAP; 2014 TR

Ethylene 205.601(k) EO 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB none

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM 1995 TAP
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday June 22, 2017 12:00 pm ET

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Joelle Mosso (JM); Dave Mortensen (DM); 

Harriet Behar (HB); Asa Bradman (AB); Jesse Buie (JB); Ashley Swaffar (SW) - observer; Scott Rice (SR) -

observer; A-Dae Briones - observer; Dan Seitz (DS) - observer 

Absent: Sue Baird (SB); Steve Ela (SE)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Lisa Brines (LB); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6 Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Fall 2017

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Fall 2017
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

TBD Fall 2017

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development

TBD Fall 2017

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17. CS rejected 

petition due to lack of new information.

May 16,

Jun 6,

Jun 20

Fall 2017

Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide)

AB Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 07 17.

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA Spr 2018

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Update Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling.

Moved to Materials Subcommittee 06 13 

17 for continued work. 

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Discussio

n doc

Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

TBD Fall 2017

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

TBD Fall 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

DM/EO DD TBD Fall 2017
Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Jul 18 Fall 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Update NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. On hold. 

TBD Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

May 2,

May 30,

Jun 22

Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal Jun 22 Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

TBD Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Aug 1 “
Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jul 18 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Logistics for conference call

• Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics, Container growing - discussion 

• Adjourn

Discussion

• The group reviewed the logistics for the teleconference. The call will likely be held July 19th and will 

be two hours long.

• Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics, and container growing. The group discussed the two topics

currently under review, acknowledging the complex nature of each. The goal is to move towards a 

compromise that the Crops Subcommittee can develop into proposals for the NOSB to consider at 

the Fall meeting. Each member contributed to the conversation and expressed their viewpoints on 
various aspects of the science, sustainability, inputs, soil and the philosophy of organic agriculture. 

Members also discussed options such as an alternative label for hydroponic systems, and the 

European standards, which do not allow hydroponics to be labelled organic. Each member was 

asked to provide suggestions for compromises, and the group will continue the conversation on the 

next Crops call. 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

June 20, 2017

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Boric acid (HB/JM) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Micronutrients: Soluble boron products, etc. (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

Tobacco dust (nicotine sulfate) (HB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Assign leads to 2020 sunset materials

Ammonium nonanoate petition resubmission (FT/SB). Petition sufficiency/determine need for TR

June 22, 2017 - Additional call

 Hydroponics/Container growing

July 18, 2017

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Micronutrients: Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, 

 molybdenum, selenium, and cobalt 205.601(j)

Anaerobic Digestate - discuss proposal

Research Priorities (discuss proposal/vote)

Fatty alcohols - discuss proposal

Marine materials (EO)

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) - assign lead to new petition

July 19, 2017

Public teleconference (Note: this was rescheduled to Aug 14)

July 25, 2017 - Additional call

 Hydroponics/Container growing

August 1, 2017

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote 

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol

Isopropanol

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate

205.601(a) EO 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB 2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB 1995 TAP “

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM 2014 TR “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB 1995 TAP “

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE 2014 TR

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~Apr 27, 2017, May 30, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 18, 2017

NOSB public teleconference July 25, 2017 (tentative)

NOP - Draft Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB 2005 TR

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB 1995 TAP; 2006 TR

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE 2010 TAP; 2014 TR

Ethylene 205.601(k) EO 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB none

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM 1995 TAP
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday July 18, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Joelle Mosso (JM); Harriet Behar (HB); Asa 

Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); Tom Chapman (TC) - observer

Absent: Dave Mortensen (DM); Jesse Buie (JB); Sue Baird (SB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix) 205.601 (k)(2)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6, 

Aug 1

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Spr 2018
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

TBD Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17. CS rejected 

petition 06 20 due to lack of new 

information.

May 16,

Jun 6,

Jun 20

NA

Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide)

AB Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 07 17.

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA Spr 2018

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Contamination 

Issues in Farm 

Inputs 

FT/HB Update Report. On HOLD pending compost ruling.

Moved to Materials Subcommittee 06 13 

17 for continued work. 

NA

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Discussio

n doc

Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Aug 1 Fall 2017

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB DD Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

TBD Fall 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

DM/EO DD TBD Spr 2018
Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 1 Fall 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Update NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. On hold. 

Aug 1 Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

May 2,

May 30,

Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

Aug 1 Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Aug 1 “
Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jul 18 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve notes from June 20, 2017

• Approve notes from June 22, 2017

• TR needs for 2020 sunset materials

• Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

• Micronutrients: Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, 

 molybdenum, selenium, and cobalt (HB)

• Research Priorities (discuss proposal/vote)

• Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - discuss proposal

• Marine materials (EO)

• Adjourn
Discussion

• Notes from June 20, 2017 approved with no changes

• Notes from June 22, 2017 approved with the addition of a postscript note revising the date of the 

web conference to August 14. 

• TR needs for 2020 sunset materials. The group determined the need for TRs for the 2020 sunset 

substances. See table below. 

• Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO). The CS is considering removing B1, and has reached out to 

Material Review Organizations about its use. The feedback indicated that there were no organic 

products with B1. Previous public comments from two certifiers indicated that micronutrients are 

being used, but the comment was general and not specific to B1. The CS will pose questions in the 

proposal about the use of B1, and plans to vote on Vitamin B1 separately from vitamins C and E. 

Motion to remove B1 at §205.601(j)(8) based on lack of essentiality 

Motion by: EO

Seconded by: SE

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 6 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0

Motion to remove vitamins C and E from §205.601(j)(8)

Motion by: EO

Seconded by: HB

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 6 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0

• Micronutrients: Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, 

molybdenum, selenium, and cobalt (HB). The lead noted that these substances have not been 

controversial and there were no comments during the previous posting asking for removal. A 

member asked a question regarding chlorides and why they are not allowed. Another member 

indicated that the annotation prohibiting chlorides was likely added to prevent salt accumulation.

Motion to remove Micronutrients: Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, 

manganese, molybdenum, selenium, and cobalt from §205.601(j)(6)(ii)

Motion by: HB

Seconded by: SE 

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 6 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0 

• Research Priorities. The group discussed the Crops research priorities and some possible additions

to the existing list. A member suggested one on the management and control of spotted wing 

drosophila in fruits, and a second research need for a systems approach to integration of livestock 

in perennial organic fruits, including tree fruits. Another member felt that the NOSB may want to 

defer work on the topic of manure in production systems, as there is ongoing research by FDA and 

others related to the implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). SE will write 

some language for addition to the research priorities list, and the Subcommittee will revisit the

document briefly during the next call to finalize. 

• Anaerobic Digestate (EO). Deferred to next call

• Marine materials (EO). Deferred to next call

• The meeting was adjourned 
Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

June 22, 2017 - Additional call

 Hydroponics/Container growing

July 18, 2017

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Micronutrients: Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, 

 molybdenum, selenium, and cobalt (HB)

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - discuss proposal

Research Priorities (discuss proposal/vote)

Fatty alcohols (JB) - discuss proposal

Marine materials (EO)

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) - assign lead to new petition

July 25, 2017 - Additional call

 Hydroponics/Container growing

August 1, 2017

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Marine materials (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB)

Newspaper - annotation change. Discuss update for Fall 2017 meeting 

August 14, 2017

Public web conference 

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment May 30, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 19, 2017

NOP - Draft Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB public web conference Aug 14, 2017 

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol

Isopropanol

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB Y low 1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch

“

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock “

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR “

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

“

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR “

Ethylene 205.601(k) EO N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

“

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SBY none“

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM Y low 1995 TAP“
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday July 25, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Joelle Mosso (JM); Harriet Behar (HB); Asa 

Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); Dave Mortensen (DM); Jesse Buie (JB); Sue Baird (SB); Lisa de Lima (LD) -

observer; Scott Rice (SR) - observer; Ashley Swaffar (AS) - observer

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP); Lisa Brines (LB)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix) 205.601 (k)(2)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Aug 1

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6, 

Aug 1

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Spr 2018
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

TBD Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17. CS rejected 

petition 06 20 due to lack of new 

information.

May 16,

Jun 6,

Jun 20

NA

Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide)

AB Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 07 17.

Spr 2018

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA Spr 2018

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Disc Doc Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Aug 1 Fall 2017

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

HB/AB Disc Doc Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17

TBD Fall 2017

Prohibition of NPEs 

in Inerts annotation 

change

DM/EO Disc Doc TBD Spr 2018
Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 1 Fall 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Update NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. On hold. 

Aug 1 Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

May 2,

May 30,

Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

Aug 1 Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

ALL NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Aug 1 “
Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jul 18 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics, Container growing - discussion 

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics, Container growing. The group discussed ideas regarding a 

compromise position offered by several Subcommittee members. The ideas build on the 2010 

NOSB recommendation and aim to clarify how to determine the line between hydroponic 

production and container grown crops. Members discussed various components such as substrates, 

inputs, definition of inputs, and sustainability. The group also discussed the broader philosophy of 

organic systems and agriculture, and are finding it difficult to come to some middle ground, as they 

seek a compromise. Many members have reached out to stakeholders to gather different 
viewpoints. The Subcommittee members will continue to exchange ideas before the next call, for 

inclusion in the Crops proposal for the fall meeting. 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

July 18, 2017

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Micronutrients: Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, 

 molybdenum, selenium, and cobalt (HB)

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - discuss proposal

Research Priorities (discuss proposal/vote)

Fatty alcohols (JB) - discuss proposal

Marine materials (EO)

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) - assign lead to new petition

July 25, 2017 - Additional call

 Hydroponics/Container growing

August 1, 2017

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Marine materials (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Sunset 2019 Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Fatty alcohols - discuss proposal/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB)

Newspaper - annotation change. Discuss update for Fall 2017 meeting 

August 14, 2017. Public web conference (NOSB)

August 15, 2017

September 5, 2017

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment May 30, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 19, 2017

NOP - Draft Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB public web conference Aug 14, 2017 
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol

Isopropanol

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB Y low 

priori

ty

1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch. 

“

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock. TR 

requested 07 28 17. In contracting.

“

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR “

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

“

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR “

Ethylene 205.601(k) EO N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

“

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. In 

contracting.

“

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM Y -

low 

priori

1995 TAP. “
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday August 1, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Joelle Mosso (JM); Harriet Behar (HB); Asa 

Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); Dave Mortensen (DM); Jesse Buie (JB); Sue Baird (SB); Tom Chapman (TC) -

observer

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix) 205.601 (k)(2)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6, 

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Spr 2018
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015)

TBD Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17. CS rejected 

petition 06 20 due to lack of new 

information.

May 16,

Jun 6,

Jun 20

NA

Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide)

AB Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 05 17.

Spr 2018

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA Spr 2018

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO Disc Doc Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

annotation change

HB/AB Disc Doc Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17. 

Pending further research 

Aug 1 Spr 2018

Prohibition of NPEs 

in inerts annotation 

change

DM/EO Disc Doc TBD Spr 2018
Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Verbal 

Update

NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17.

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. 

May 2,

May 30,

Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

Proposal Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

All NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b)

HB/AB Y Aug 15 Spr 2018
Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jul 18 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve notes from July 18, 2017

• Approve notes from July 25, 2017

• Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

• Sunset 2019 Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

• Anaerobic digestate (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

• Marine materials (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

• Fatty alcohols - discuss proposal/vote

• Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB)

• Newspaper - annotation change (HB). Discuss update for Fall 2017 meeting - tentative

• Adjourn
Discussion

• Notes from July 18, 2017 were approved with a minor correction to the section under vitamins.

• Notes from July 25, 2017 were approved with the addition of language to the discussion on 

hydroponics regarding the difficulty of finding a compromise position. 

• Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB). The group discussed the sunset review 

briefly in the context of the “other” project on biobased mulch. The group will discuss and vote on 

the sunset review on the next call. 

• Biodegradable biobased mulch film annotation change (HB/AB). One of the co-leads summarized 

the background for this project. A previous Board put forth a recommendation on an annotation 

that did not indicate how much biological based material must be included in a product to be 

considered for use in organic agriculture. The NOP subsequently provided guidance that it must 

contain 100%. However, with the exception of paper mulch, there are no products that meet this 

standard. The group discussed the path forward and will defer discussion until more research is 

available. 

• Sunset 2019 Humic acids (AB). The lead summarized the material and the public comment received 

during the first posting. The group discussed history, use and manufacture of humic acids, and after 

some modifications to the draft review, proceeded to a vote. 

Motion to remove humic acids from §205.601(j)

Motion by: AS

Seconded by: DM

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 9 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0 

• Anaerobic Digestate (EO). The Crops Subcommittee is working on two projects on anaerobic 

digestate: one petition, and one additional project to look at a broader scope with regard to food 

waste and other manure issues. The lead summarized the history of these projects and the use and

manufacture, including human health impacts. The group discussed the draft proposal and there 

was some uncertainty about the wording of the motions for the petition, specifically, whether it 

needs a classification motion and where it would appear in the regulations. The petitioner 

requested a change to §205.600. The CS will defer the vote to the next call. 

• Marine materials (EO). Deferred to next call for lack of time.

• Fatty alcohols (JB). Deferred to next call for lack of time.

• Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB). Deferred to next 

call for lack of time.

• Newspaper - annotation change (HB). Discuss status/update at fall meeting Deferred to next call 

for lack of time.

• Other items. The Crops Subcommittee added an extra call on August 29

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

July 18, 2017

Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Micronutrients: Sulfates, carbonates, oxides, or silicates of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, 

 molybdenum, selenium, and cobalt (HB)

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - discuss proposal

Research Priorities (discuss proposal/vote)
Fatty alcohols (JB) - discuss proposal

Marine materials (EO)

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) - assign lead to new petition

July 25, 2017 - Additional call

 Hydroponics/Container growing

August 1, 2017

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Marine materials (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Sunset 2019 Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Fatty alcohols - discuss proposal/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB)

Newspaper - annotation change. Discuss update for Fall 2017 meeting 

August 14, 2017. Public web conference (NOSB)

August 15, 2017

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Marine materials (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Newspaper - annotation change (HB). Discuss update for Fall 2017 meeting

August 29, 2017

September 5, 2017

 Sulfur (as a molluscicide) (AB) - petition sufficiency/need for TR

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment May 30, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 19, 2017

NOP - Draft Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB public web conference Aug 14, 2017 

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol

Isopropanol

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB Y low 

priori

ty

1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch. 

“

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock. TR 

requested 07 28 17. In contracting.

“

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR “

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

“

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR “

Ethylene 205.601(k) EO N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

“

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. In 

contracting.

“

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM Y -

low 

priori

1995 TAP. “
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday August 15, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Joelle Mosso (JM); Harriet Behar (HB); Asa 

Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); Dave Mortensen (DM); Jesse Buie (JB); Tom Chapman (TC) - observer

Absent: Sue Baird (SB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix) 205.601 (k)(2)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6, 

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Spr 2018
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015). 

TR sent to CS 08 07 17. Response due 10 06 

17

Sep 5 Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17. CS rejected 

petition 06 20 due to lack of new 

information.

May 16,

Jun 6,

Jun 20

NA

Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide)

AB Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 05 17.

Aug 29 Spr 2018

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA Spr 2018

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO/HB Disc Doc Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Spr 2018

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

annotation change

HB/AB Disc Doc Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17. 

Pending further research 

Aug 1 Spr 2018

Prohibition of NPEs 

in inerts annotation 

change

DM/EO Disc Doc TBD Spr 2018
Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 15 Spr 2018

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Verbal 

Update

NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17.

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. Container doc 

Incorporated into the document on 

Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics 08 14 

May 2,

May 30,

Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Aug 29

Fall 2017

Container and 

greenhouse 

production

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Disc doc Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Aug 29

Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

All NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “
Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b) 

HB/AB Y Aug 15 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jul 18 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve notes from August 1, 2017

• Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

• Fatty alcohols (JB) Discuss proposal/vote

• Anaerobic Digestate petition (EO) Discuss proposal/vote

• Marine materials (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

• Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB) - Discuss 

proposal/vote
• Newspaper - annotation change (HB). Discuss update for Fall 2017 meeting

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Notes from August 1, 2017 were approved with no changes

• Fatty alcohols (octanol/decanol mix) (JB). The group discussed modifications to the previous 

version of the draft review, and added additional background. 

Motion to classify fatty alcohols (octanol/decanol mix) as petitioned as synthetic 

Motion by: JB

Seconded by: EO

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 8 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0 

Motion to add fatty alcohols (octanol/decanol mix) as petitioned at §205.601 (k)(2)

Motion by: JB

Seconded by: EO

Additional discussion: a member noted that using fatty alcohols could reduce direct human 

exposure (and health risks) but that, after consideration of all criteria, he would not support the 

addition of fatty alcohols as petitioned to the National List

Yes: No: 8 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB). The lead summarized the review and 

the group discussed various aspects of manufacture. The group also discussed the proposed 

annotation change, which they will continue working on for the Spring 2018 NOSB meeting.

Motion to remove Biodegradable biobased mulch film from §205.601()

Motion by: HB

Seconded by: EO

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 8 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0 

• Anaerobic Digestate petition (EO). The lead summarized the proposal, and noted that the CS may

also working on a discussion document to address the request from NOP (sent in May 2016) (on 

work agenda as Anaerobic Digestate - Food Waste 205.601(j) and other manure issues). 

Motion to classify anaerobic digestate produced from nonsynthetic feedstocks as nonsynthetic: 

Motion by: SE

Seconded by: HB

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 8 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0 

Motion to allow anaerobic digestate without a pre-harvest interval, by amending §205.203 - Soil 

fertility and crop nutrient management practice standard. (See proposal for full text of 

amendment). 

Motion by: EO

Seconded by: SE

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 8 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Marine materials (EO). The marine materials proposal was returned to Subcommittee for 

additional work at the Spring 2017 meeting. The CS plans to work in conjunction with the Handling 
Subcommittee’s proposal on the same topic. The lead is currently exploring additional information 

and is engaging many stakeholders, as well as the lead for the Handling Subcommittee. HB also 

volunteered to assist. 

• Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB). The proposal

was referred back to the Subcommittee at the Spring 2017 meeting because commenters indicated 

they did not have enough time to review it. The CS will post the same document for comment.

Motion to accept the proposal to Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed 

(NOP 5029).

Motion by: HB

Seconded by: EO

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 8 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Newspaper - annotation change (HB). The lead will provide a verbal update at Fall 2017 meeting.

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

August 1, 2017

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Marine materials (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Sunset 2019 Humic acids (AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Fatty alcohols - discuss proposal/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB)

Newspaper - annotation change. Discuss update for Fall 2017 meeting 

August 14, 2017. Public web conference (NOSB)

August 15, 2017

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Marine materials (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Newspaper - annotation change (HB). Discuss update at Fall 2017 meeting

August 29, 2017

Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics + Container and greenhouse production

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) (AB) - petition sufficiency/need for TR

September 5, 2017

 Sodium Citrate - TR sufficiency

September 19, 2017

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol

Isopropanol

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB N 1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch. Low priority

“

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock. TR 

requested 07 28 17. In contracting.

“

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR “

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment May 30, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 19, 2017

NOP - Draft Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB public web conference Aug 14, 2017 

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

“

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR “

Ethylene 205.601(k) EO N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

“

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. In 

contracting.

“

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM N 1995 TAP. Low priority “
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday August 29, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Sue Baird (SB); Joelle Mosso (JM); Harriet 

Behar (HB); Asa Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); Dave Mortensen (DM); Jesse Buie (JB)

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix) 205.601 (k)(2)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS 

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6, 

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Spr 2018
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015). 

TR sent to CS 08 07 17. Response due 10 06 

17

Sep 5 Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development

TBD Spr 2018

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17. CS rejected 

petition 06 20 due to lack of new 

information.

May 16,

Jun 6,

Jun 20

NA

Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide)

AB Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 05 17.

Sep 19 Spr 2018

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A NA Spr 2018

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO/HB Disc Doc Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Spr 2018

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

annotation change

HB/AB Disc Doc Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17. 

Pending further research 

Aug 1 Spr 2018

Prohibition of NPEs 

in inerts annotation 

change

DM/EO Disc Doc TBD Spr 2018
Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Proposal NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 15 Spr 2018

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Verbal 

Update

NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. 

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. Container doc 

Incorporated into the document on 

Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics 08 14 

May 2,

May 30,

Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Aug 29

Fall 2017

Field and 

Greenhouse 

Container 

Production

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Disc doc Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Aug 29

Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed 

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at

Spr 2017 meeting

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

All NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017 

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “
Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b) 

HB/AB Y Aug 15 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jul 18 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• Approve notes from August 15, 2017

• Field and Greenhouse Container Production - Discuss/vote

• Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics - Discuss/vote

• Adjourn

Discussion
• Approval of the notes from August 15, 2017 was deferred to the next call.

• Field and Greenhouse Container Production discussion document. Members have been actively 

exchanging ideas on a discussion document to address topics related to container production. 

Following a summary by the lead author, members proceeded to vote on the document. The Crops 

Subcommittee is presenting this document alongside the hydroponics proposal as a means to glean 

more feedback from stakeholders regarding container growing. 

Motion to accept the discussion document on Field and Greenhouse Container Production

Motion by: FT

Seconded by: SE 

Additional discussion: The CS is seeking public comment regarding this document, with the 

intention of bringing forth a proposal at the spring meeting. 

Yes: 9 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0 

• Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics. Members discussed the current iteration of the proposal 

and modifications to the language since the previous meeting, included suggestions that were not 

incorporated. Members discussed various aspects of the proposal such as sustainability, impacts, 

and water conservation. The CS moved to a vote on the 4 separate motions in the proposal. 

Aeroponic production systems

o Motion to prohibit aeroponic production systems from organic certification.

Motion by: EO

Seconded by: HB

Additional discussion: A member chose to abstain from voting on one of the motions citing 

lack of awareness or knowledge of some of these systems, and urged the NOP to provide 

the NOSB members more opportunities to visit operations to inform their decision.

Yes: 8 No: 0 Abstain: 1 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

Aquaponic production systems

o Motion to prohibit aquaponic production systems from organic certification.

Motion by: HB

Seconded by: JB

Additional discussion: Members discussed adding language to clarify that they may work on 

this topic again, as production systems and organic regulations evolve. 

Yes: 7 No: 2 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

Container production:

o Motion to qualify that for container production to be certified organic, a limit of 20% of the 

plants’ nitrogen requirement can be supplied by liquid feeding, and a limit of 50% of the 

plants’ nitrogen requirement can be added to the container after the crop has been 

planted. For perennials, the soluble nitrogen feeding limit is calculated on an annual basis. 

Transplants, ornamentals, herbs, sprouts, fodder, and aquatic plants are exempted from 

these requirements.

Motion by: FT

Seconded by: SE

Additional discussion: A member supported the standard being proposed, indicating that it

is practical and implementable. Another member feels that this should be part of the 

discussion document on container growing and not part of this proposal. 

Yes: 6 No: 3 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0
Hydroponics

o Motion that any container production system that does not meet the standard of a limit of 

20% of the plants’ nitrogen requirement being supplied by liquid feeding, and a limit of 50% 

of the plants’ nitrogen requirement being added to the container after the crop has been 

planted, is defined as hydroponic and should not be allowed to be certified organic. For 

perennials, the soluble nitrogen feeding limit is calculated on an annual basis. Transplants, 

ornamentals, herbs, sprouts, fodder, and aquatic plants are exempted from these 

requirements.

Motion by: JB

Seconded by: DM

Additional discussion: A member had some concerns that the Crops Subcomm needs more 

information regarding this topic. 

Yes: 6 No: 3 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• Other items. The CS cancelled the September 5 call

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

August 15, 2017

Anaerobic Digestate (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote

Marine materials (EO) - Discuss proposal/vote?

Sunset 2019 Biodegradable biobased mulch film (HB/AB) - Discuss proposal/vote

Strengthen and clarify the requirements for use of organic seed (NOP 5029) (HB) - Discuss 

proposal/vote

Newspaper - annotation change (HB). Discuss update at Fall 2017 meeting

August 29, 2017

Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics + Container and greenhouse production

September 5, 2017 - cancelled 

September 19, 2017

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) (AB) - petition sufficiency/need for TR

Sodium Citrate - TR sufficiency

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment May 30, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 19, 2017

NOP - Draft Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB public web conference Aug 14, 2017 
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018 

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol 

Isopropanol 

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate 

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB N 1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch. Low priority

“

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock. TR 

requested 07 28 17. In contracting.

“

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR “

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

“

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR “

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Ethylene 205.601(k) EO

N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

“

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SBY

None. TR requested 07 28 17. In 

contracting.

“

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JMN 1995 TAP. Low priority“
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday September 19, 2017 2:00 pm ET

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Sue Baird (SB); Joelle Mosso (JM); Harriet 

Behar (HB); Asa Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); Dave Mortensen (DM); Jesse Buie (JB)

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix) 205.601 (k)(2)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS 

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6, 

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development. Expected 

December 2017.

TBD Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

Expected December 2017.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Spr 2018
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015). 

TR sent to CS 08 07 17. Response due 10 06 

17. Found TR insufficient 09 19 17. Will 

send contractor additional question(s).

Sep 19 Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development. Expected 

October 2017

TBD Spr 2018

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17. CS rejected 

petition 06 20 due to lack of new 

information.

May 16,

Jun 6,

Jun 20

NA

Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide) 

205.601

AB N Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 05 17. Petition 

found sufficient 09 19 17. No TR request.

Sep 19 Spr 2018

Inert Ingredients

Substance Contact

TR 

rqstd?

Notes* Vote Meeting

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

N/A Disc doc. NA Spr 2018

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO/HB/J

M

Disc Doc Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Spr 2018

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

annotation change

HB/AB Disc Doc Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17. 

Pending further research 

Aug 1 Spr 2018
Prohibition of NPEs 

in inerts -

annotation change

DM/EO Disc Doc TBD Spr 2018

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Disc doc NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 15 Spr 2018

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Verbal 

Update

NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. 

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. Container doc 

Incorporated into the document on 

Aeroponics/Hydroponics/Aquaponics 08 14 

17

May 2,

May 30,

Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Aug 29

Fall 2017

Field and 

Greenhouse 

Container 

Production

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Disc doc Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Aug 29

Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed 

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

All NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017 

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting
Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “

Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b) 

HB/AB Y Aug 15 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jul 18 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion
Agenda

• Sulfur (as a molluscicide) (AB) - petition sufficiency/need for TR

• Sodium Citrate - TR sufficiency

• Hydroponics/container proposal - Discuss minority view 

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Sulfur (as a molluscicide) (AB). The lead reviewed the petition and previous TRs and felt that the 

information was complete, given the proposed use. The petitioned use calls for pelleted sulfur for 

snail control, and the members discussed the fact that this would likely pose minimal human health 

risks. The lead will draft a proposal for discussion on a future call. The group discussed a possible 

future project to consider health risks associated with different methods of application of sulfur for 

crop production (i.e., sulfur dust vs. sulfur in liquid form). Members will do some research and 

continue the discussion on a later call. 

• Sodium Citrate (HB). The TR was found insufficient, and the CS plans to send it back to the 

contractor for additional work. 

• Other items: The group reviewed the work agenda and made some updates.

o Anaerobic Digestate - food waste and other manure issues. NOP requested in 2016 that the 

NOSB look at this topic more broadly than anaerobic digestate alone (see entry above for 

petition). The CS will continue to consider the broader topic, including the FSMA 

regulations. The NOP offered to coordinate a briefing for the CS with FDA staff once the 

FDA publishes anticipated draft guidance on application intervals.

o Prohibition of NPEs in inerts - annotation change. The LS was working on this project but 

determined that it was far more complicated than they originally thought, so they did not 

pursue it. The CS Chair will discuss this further and determine if it should be removed from 

the Crops work agenda as well. 

o Marine materials. Stakeholders from various sectors of the organic community have 

continued interest in this topic. The lead continues to have discussions with these 

stakeholders and may have a document ready for the Spring 2018 meeting. 

• Hydroponics/container proposal minority view. The group discussed the minority view that was 

included in the hydroponics proposal. They also discussed the voting procedure for the proposal, 

and would like to clarify the process with the parliamentarian ahead of time. 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

September 19, 2017

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) (AB) - petition sufficiency/need for TR

Sodium Citrate - TR sufficiency

October 3, 2017

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

Natamycin (HB) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

December 5, 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt (JB) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)
Allyl Isothiocyanate (AITC) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018 

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol 

Isopropanol 

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate 

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB N 1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch. Low priority

“

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR “

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment May 30, 2017

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 19, 2017

NOP - Draft Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB public web conference Aug 14, 2017 

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017
Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock. TR 

requested 07 28 17. In contracting.

“

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR “

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

“

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR “

Ethylene 205.601(k) EO N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

“

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. In 

contracting.

“

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM N 1995 TAP. Low priority “
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday October 17, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Sue Baird (SB); Joelle Mosso (JM); Harriet 

Behar (HB); Asa Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); Dave Mortensen (DM); Jesse Buie (JB); Scott Rice (SR) 

observer

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Fatty Alcohols 

(octanol/decanol 

mix) 205.601 (k)(2)

JB Y Petition sent to CS 01 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR Request due 03 28 16. Petition 

found sufficient 03 17 16. TR request sent 

to NOP 03 17 16. TR in development -

expected Fall 2016. TR sent to CS 02 13 17. 

Response due 04 14 17. CS requested 

additional info from petitioner 03 24 17. TR 

found sufficient 05 02 17

May 2

May 16

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Anaerobic 

Digestate

205.203

EO Y New petition sent to MS 04 22 16. Under 

review for eligibility at request of NOP. TR 

request sent to NOP 07 05 16. TR in 

development. Expected Feb 2017. TR sent 

to CS 03 10 17. Response due 05 09 17. CS 

sent additional questions to TR contractor

04 13 17. TR addendum sent to CS 05 16 

17. TR found sufficient 06 06 17.

Jun 6, 

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Fall 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development. Expected 

December 2017.

TBD Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

Expected December 2017.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

TBD Spr 2018
Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015). 

TR sent to CS 08 07 17. Response due 10 06 

17. Found TR insufficient 09 19 17. Will 

send contractor additional question(s).

Sep 19 Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development. Expected 

October 2017

TBD Spr 2018

Ammonium 

Nonanoate 

FT/SB 2011 TR Original petition sent to CS 11 09 16. CS 

rejected petition 12 20 16. Resubmitted 

petition sent to CS 05 11 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 07 10 17. CS rejected 

petition 06 20 due to lack of new 

information.

May 16,

Jun 6,

Jun 20

NA

Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide) 

205.601

AB N Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 05 17. Petition 

found sufficient 09 19 17. No TR request.

Sep 19 Spr 2018

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

(Manure 

treatments)

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO/HB/J

M

Disc Doc Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above)

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Spr 2018

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

annotation change

HB/AB Disc Doc Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17. 

Pending further research 

Aug 1 Spr 2018

Prohibition of NPEs 

in inerts -

annotation change/

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

Disc 

Doc/Prop

IWG recommended NOSB work on NPEs/TR 

requested July 2014. 

DD - April 2016. 

EPA List 4 inerts disc doc (originated from 

2017 sunset review conducted in 2015). 

Pending EPA decision

TBD Fall 2018
Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Disc doc NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 15, Spr 2018

Newspaper -

annotation change

HB Verbal 

Update

NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 06 21 16. TR in 

development. TR expected Dec 2016. TR 

sent to CS 01 11 17. TR suff due 03 15 17. 

TR found sufficient 03 07 17. 

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Aeroponics/Hydrop

onics/Aquaponics 

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Proposal Report due from Task Force ~June. 

Deadline extended to mid-July. 2 parts: 

proposal on bioponics and a disc doc on 

container-based growing. Container doc 

incorporated into the doc on 

Aero/Hydro/Aqua 08 14 17

May 2,

May 30,

Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Aug 29

Fall 2017

Field and 

Greenhouse 

Container 

Production

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

Disc doc Jun 22, 

Jul 25

Aug 29

Fall 2017

Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed 

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting

Aug 15 Fall 2017

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2017 Jul 18 Fall 2017

NOP operating plan 

suggestions

All NA NA NA

2019 Sunsets 

Summary: Spr 2017 Review: Fall 2017 

Substance Contact TR 

request?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Chlorine Materials 

(Calcium 

hypochlorite, 

Chlorine dioxide, 

Sodium 

hypochlorite) 

205.601(a)

FT N Jun 6 Review 

Fall 17

Herbicides, soapbased 205.601(b)

SB N Jun 6 “
Biodegradable 

biobased mulch 

film 205.601(b) 

HB/AB Y Aug 15 “

Boric acid 

205.601(e)

HB/JM N Jun 20 “

Sticky 

traps/barriers 

205.601(e)

EO N Jun 6 “

Copper sulfate 

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Coppers, fixed

205.601(i)

SE N Jun 6 “

Humic acids 

205.601(j)

AB N 2012 TR for oxidized lignite/humic acid 

derivatives

Aug 1 “

Micronutrients: 

Soluble boron 

products 

205.601(j)

HB N Jun 20 “

Micronutrients: 

Sulfates, 

carbonates, oxides, 

or silicates of zinc, 

copper, iron, 

manganese, 

molybdenum, 

selenium, and 

cobalt 205.601(j)

HB N Jul 18 “

Vitamin B1 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin C 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Vitamin E 

205.601(j)

EO N Jun 20,

Jul 18

“

Lead salts 

205.602(d)

FT N Jun 6 “

Tobacco dust 

(nicotine sulfate) 

205.602(i)

HB N Jun 20 “

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

Agenda

• September 19, 2017 notes update

• Review public comments

• Adjourn

Discussion

• September 19, 2017 were approved via email October 2, 2017 with no changes
• Review assignments

o The group reviewed the materials and who will present what at the fall meeting. 

o A member asked that the CS Chair send an email to the entire Board to let them know the 

format for the conversation on hydroponics at the Fall meeting. The group also discussed 

the format of the vote for the proposal, which has 4 motions, as well as the related 

discussion document on container and green-house production. 

• Review Public comments. HB will summarize and present the public comments for hydroponics at 

the Fall 201 meeting. 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

October 3, 2017 - cancelled

October 17, 2017

November 7, 2017

November 21, 2017

Natamycin (HB) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) 

December 5, 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt (JB) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

Allyl Isothiocyanate (AITC) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

December 19, 2017

January 2, 2018

January 16, 2018

February 6, 2018

February 20, 2018

March 6, 2018

March 20, 2018

April 3, 2018

April 17, 2018

May 1, 2018

May 15, 2018

June 5, 2018

June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Fall 2017 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment May 30, 2017
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018 

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

NOSB Request for TRs for 2020 sunset materials July 19, 2017

NOP - Draft Fall 2017 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 11, 2017

NOSB public web conference Aug 14, 2017 

NOSB - Fall 2017 proposals due to NOP Aug 29, 2017

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 12, 2017

Public comment closes Oct 11, 2017

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 13, 2017

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 16, 2017

Two Public comment webinars Oct 24, and if needed 26, 2017

Fall 2017 NOSB meeting - Jacksonville, FL Oct 31- Nov 2, 2017

Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018
Alcohols: 

Ethanol 

Isopropanol 

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate 

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB N 1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch. Low priority

“

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock. TR 

requested 07 28 17. In contracting.

“

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR “

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

“

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR “

Ethylene 205.601(k) EO N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

“

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. In 

contracting.

“

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM N 1995 TAP. Low priority “
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday November 21, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Sue Baird (SB); Harriet Behar (HB); Asa 

Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); Jesse Buie (JB)

Absent: Joelle Mosso (JM); Dave Mortensen (DM)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP); Lisa Brines (LB) 

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development. Expected 

December 2017.

Dec 19 Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

Expected December 2017.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

Dec 19 Spr 2018

Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015). 

TR sent to CS 08 07 17. Response due 10 06 

17. Found TR insufficient 09 19 17. Will 

send contractor additional question(s).

Sep 19, Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development. Expected 

October 2017. TR sent to CS 11 3 17. 

Response due 01 12 18

Dec 5 Spr 2018
Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide) 

205.601

AB N Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 05 17. Petition 

found sufficient 09 19 17. No TR request.

Sep 19

Jan 2

Spr 2018

Ammonium Citrate

205.601

EO Petition sent to CS 10 25 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 12 26 17. TR requested 

11 21 17.

Nov 21 TBD

Ammonium 

Glycinate

205.601

EO/AB/ Y Petition sent to CS 10 25 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 12 26 17. TR requested 

11 21 17.

Nov 21 TBD

Calcium Acetate SB Petition sent to CS 1 20 17. Petition suff/TR 

request due 01 17 17.

Jan 16 TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

(Manure 

treatments)

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO/HB/J

M

Disc Doc Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above). Waiting

for result of FDA’s risk assessment. 

Aug 1, 

Aug 15, 

2017

Spr 2018

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

annotation change

HB/AB Disc Doc Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17. 

Pending further research 

Aug 1, 2017 Spr 2018

Prohibition of NPEs 

in inerts -

annotation change/

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

Disc 

Doc/Prop

IWG recommended NOSB work on NPEs/TR 

requested July 2014. 

DD - April 2016. 

EPA List 4 inerts disc doc (originated from 

2017 sunset review conducted in 2015). 

Pending EPA decision

TBD Fall 2018

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Disc doc NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 15, 

Dec 5

Spr 2018

Field and 

Greenhouse 

Container 

Production

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

TBD Dec 5 Spr 2018
Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed 

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting. Referred back to CS at 

Fall 2017 meeting.

Spr 2018

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018 

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol 

Isopropanol 

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Jan 2 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate 

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR Dec 5 “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR Dec 5 “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB N 1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR Dec 19 “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock. TR 

requested 07 28 17. In contracting.

Jan 2 “

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR Dec 5 “

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR Dec 19 “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

Dec 19 “

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR Jan 2 “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR Dec 5 “
Ethylene 205.601(k) EO N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

Dec 5 “

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. In 

contracting.

Dec 19 “

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM N 1995 TAP. Low priority Jan 2 “

Agenda

• Approve notes from October 17, 2017 

• Call for additional agenda items.

• Liquid fish fertilizers (LB, DP).

• Review of work agenda. Assign leads and discussion dates. 

• Petitions for ammonium glycinate and ammonium citrate (EO).

• Calcium acetate petition: assign lead.

• Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals. 

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Notes from October 17, 2017 were approved with no changes. 

Call for additional agenda items. A member asked that we add sulfur (as a molluscicide) to the 

 agenda since it was deferred from a previous call. It was rescheduled for December 19

• Liquid fish fertilizers (LB, DP). Liquid fish fertilizers are part of the next sunset review and will be 

discussed at the next two Board meetings. The NOP described the use, manufacture, and 

annotation, and provided guidance to the Subcommittee about possible questions for public 

comment to glean more information about pH measurement throughout the manufacturing 

processes. 

• Petitions for ammonium glycinate and ammonium citrate (EO). The lead noted that these

materials were petitioned in 2016. No TR was requested at that time, and the Crops Subcommittee 

voted to not add them to the National List. The petitioner resubmitted new petitions. The CS will 

request a TR with specific questions, on which the NOP offered to provide feedback. Several 

members offered help with the review of the TR and the proposals.

• Review of work agenda/Assign leads and discussion dates. See table above. 

• Calcium acetate petition: SB volunteered to lead the review. 

• Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals. Deferred to next call.

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

November 7, 2017 - cancelled

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

Marine Materials (EO). Discussion of next steps

Natamycin (HB) - TR sufficiency

Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals.

2020 sunset: Sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate - (EO) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Newspaper or other recycled paper (HB) - Discuss review
2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Lime sulfur (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Sulfurous Acid (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Ethylene (EO) - Discuss review

December 19, 2017

Polyoxin D Zinc salt (JB) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

Allyl Isothiocyanate (AITC) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

2020 sunset: Aqueous potassium silicate (DM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Sucrose octanoate esters (SB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Hydrated lime (DM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Microcrystalline cheesewax (SB) - Discuss review

January 2, 2018

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) - Review/vote on proposal

2020 sunset: Alcohols: Ethanol Isopropanol (JB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Elemental sulfur (AB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Liquid fish products (AB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Potassium chloride (JM) - Discuss review

January 16, 2018

Calcium Acetate (SB) - petition sufficiency/TR request

February 6, 2018

February 20, 2018

March 6, 2018

March 20, 2018

April 3, 2018

April 17, 2018

May 1, 2018

May 15, 2018

June 5, 2018

June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018
Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday December 5, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Francis Thicke, Chair (FT); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Asa Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); Jesse 

Buie (JB); Dave Mortensen (DM); Harriet Behar (HB); Sue Baird (SB)

Absent: Joelle Mosso (JM)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development. Expected 

Feb/Mar 2018.

Feb 6, 2018 Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development. . 

Expected Feb/Mar 2018.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

Feb 6, 2018 Spr 2018

Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015). 

TR sent to CS 08 07 17. Response due 10 06 

17. Found TR insufficient 09 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR contractor 12 11 

17

Sep 19, 

2017

Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development. Expected 

October 2017. TR sent to CS 11 3 17. 

Response due 01 12 18. TR found sufficient 

12 5 17.

Dec 5 Spr 2018
Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide) 

205.601

AB N Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 05 17. Petition 

found sufficient 09 19 17. No TR request.

Sep 19

Jan 2

Spr 2018

Ammonium Citrate

205.601

EO/DM Petition sent to CS 10 25 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 12 26 17. TR requested 

11 21 17.

Nov 21 TBD

Ammonium 

Glycinate

205.601

EO/DM Y Petition sent to CS 10 25 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 12 26 17. TR requested 

11 21 17.

Nov 21 TBD

Calcium Acetate SB Petition sent to CS 1 20 17. Petition suff/TR 

request due 01 17 17.

Jan 16 TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

(Manure 

treatments)

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO/HB/J

M

Disc Doc Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above). Waiting

for result of FDA’s risk assessment. 

Aug 1, 

Aug 15, 

2017

Spr 2018

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

annotation change

HB/AB Disc Doc Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17. 

Pending further research 

Aug 1, 2017 Spr 2018

Prohibition of NPEs 

in inerts -

annotation change/

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

Disc 

Doc/Prop

IWG recommended NOSB work on NPEs/TR 

requested July 2014. 

DD - April 2016. 

EPA List 4 inerts disc doc (originated from 

2017 sunset review conducted in 2015). 

Pending EPA decision

TBD Fall 2018

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Disc doc NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 15, 

Dec 5

Spr 2018

Field and 

Greenhouse 

Container 

Production

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

TBD Dec 19 Spr 2018
Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed 

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting. Referred back to CS at 

Fall 2017 meeting.

Spr 2018

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018 

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol 

Isopropanol 

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Jan 2 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate 

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR Dec 5 “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR Dec 5 “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB N 1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch. Low priority

Dec 19 “

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR Dec 19 “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock. TR 

requested 07 28 17. In contracting.

Jan 2 “

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR Dec 19 “

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR Dec 19 “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

Dec 19 “

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR Jan 2 “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR Dec 19 “
Ethylene 205.601(k) EO N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

Dec 19 “

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. In 

contracting.

Dec 19 “

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM N 1995 TAP. Low priority Jan 2 “

Agenda

• Approve notes from November 21, 2017 

• Marine Materials (EO). Discussion of next steps

• Natamycin (HB) - TR sufficiency

• Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals.

• 2020 sunset: Sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate - (EO) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Newspaper or other recycled paper (HB) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Lime sulfur (SE) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Sulfurous Acid (SE) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Ethylene (EO) - Discuss review

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Notes from November 21, 2017 approved with no changes.

• Marine Materials (EO). Several Board members met with stakeholders at the Fall NOSB meeting to 

discuss issues specific to marine materials, and ways to move forward with the project. The lead 

proposes to bring this to the Spring NOSB meeting as a discussion document to solicit feedback 

from stakeholders. The group is also interested in, and supportive of, posting a preliminary 

discussion document to allow stakeholders to weigh in during the development of the document 

prior to the spring meeting. The intention is to post the document in Regulations.gov. 

• Natamycin (HB). The lead summarized her review of the petition and TR. In a previous review of 

natamycin the NOSB did not vote to classify it as either synthetic or non-synthetic, and the petition 

to add it to the National List was denied. Members discussed the implications of considering it nonsynthetic, including its potential use in crop production, livestock feed, and processed products. A 

member mentioned potential uses in processed food (cheese, for example), for which it would have 

to be listed at 205.605. Members questioned whether natamycin would be indicated on labels 

(retail and/or wholesale) when applied to crops post-harvest, and agreed to research some 

lingering questions outside the TR. The TR was found sufficient and the lead will develop a 

document for review by the CS. 

• Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals. Deferred to next call while the 

lead prepares ideas for the group to review. 

• 2020 sunset: Sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate (EO). The lead summarized the review. This 

substance was added to the National List with the hope that it would be an alternative for copper 

for use in rice. She noted that the previous vote was split, both in Subcommittee and at the NOSB 

meeting, but that it was less about the substance and more to do with the change in the sunset 

review process. The CS will put forth a couple of questions for public comment regarding use of 

sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate.

• 2020 sunset: Newspaper or other recycled paper (HB). The lead indicated that the TR did not 

provide any additional information that would lead them to change the current annotation. The 

group provided feedback about the review, and will include some questions for public comment. 
• 2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB). Deferred to next call. 

• 2020 sunset: Lime sulfur (SE). Deferred to next call. 

• 2020 sunset: Sulfurous Acid (SE). Deferred to next call.

• 2020 sunset: Ethylene (EO). Deferred to next call. 

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

November 21, 2017

December 5, 2017

Marine Materials (EO). Discussion of next steps

Natamycin (HB) - TR sufficiency

Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals.

2020 sunset: Sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate - (EO) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Newspaper or other recycled paper (HB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Lime sulfur (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Sulfurous Acid (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Ethylene (EO) - Discuss review

December 19, 2017

2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Lime sulfur (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Sulfurous Acid (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Ethylene (EO) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Aqueous potassium silicate (DM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Hydrated lime (DM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Sucrose octanoate esters (SB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Microcrystalline cheesewax (SB) - Discuss review

Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals.

January 2, 2018

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) - Review/vote on proposal

2020 sunset: Alcohols: Ethanol Isopropanol (JB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Elemental sulfur (AB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Liquid fish products (AB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Potassium chloride (JM) - Discuss review

January 16, 2018

Calcium Acetate (SB) - petition sufficiency/TR request

February 6, 2018

Polyoxin D Zinc salt (JB) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

Allyl Isothiocyanate (AITC) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

February 20, 2018

March 6, 2018

March 20, 2018

April 3, 2018

April 17, 2018

May 1, 2018

May 15, 2018

June 5, 2018

June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018
August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal from the 

National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Crops Subcommittee (CS) Meeting Notes

 Tuesday December 19, 2017 2:00 pm ET 

Present: Steve Ela, Chair (SE); Emily Oakley, Vice Chair (EO); Asa Bradman (AB); Jesse Buie (JB); Dave 

Mortensen (DM); Harriet Behar (HB); Sue Baird (SB); Joelle Mosso (JM); Ashley Swaffar, observer

Absent: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Francis Thicke (FT)

Staff: Devon Pattillo (DP); Lisa Brines (note taker)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance Contact

TR 

request?

Notes Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Polyoxin D Zinc salt

205.601

JB Y Petition sent to CS 06 16 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 08 16 16. Petition 

found sufficient 08 16 16. Discuss need for 

Lmt’d scope TR. CS requested Lmt’d scope 

TR 10 04 16. TR sent to Subcommittee on 

12 19 17.

Feb 6, 2018 Spr 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate 

(AITC) Petition 

(2016) 205.601

JB Y Lmt’d 

scope

Petition sent to CS 07 06 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 06 16. Petition 

found suff 10 04 16. CS requested Lmt’d 

scope TR 10 04 16. TR in development. . 

Expected Feb/Mar 2018.

• AITC Petition (2013) (PDF)

• NOSB Subcommittee Proposal 

(2014) (PDF)

• Technical Evaluation Report (2014) 

(PDF)

Feb 6, 2018 Spr 2018

Sodium Citrate 

205.601

HB Y Petition sent to CS 07 27 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 27 16. Petition was 

found sufficient 10 04 16. CS requested a 

TR 10 04 16. TR in development.

TR - Handling, Citric acid and salts (2015). 

TR sent to CS 08 07 17. Response due 10 06 

17. Found TR insufficient 09 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR contractor 12 11 

17

Sep 19, 

2017

Spr 2018

Natamycin HB Y Petition sent to CS 09 09 16. Petition 

suff/TR request due 11 08 16. Petition 

found sufficient 11 01 16, and CS requested 

TR 11 01 16. TR in development. Expected 

October 2017. TR sent to CS 11 3 17. 

Response due 01 12 18. TR found sufficient 

12 5 17.

Dec 5 Spr 2018
Sulfur (as a 

molluscicide) 

205.601

AB N Petition sent to CS 06 08 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 09 05 17. Petition 

found sufficient 09 19 17. No TR request.

Sep 19

Jan 2

Spr 2018

Ammonium Citrate

205.601

EO/DM Petition sent to CS 10 25 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 12 26 17. TR requested 

11 21 17.

Nov 21 TBD

Ammonium 

Glycinate

205.601

EO/DM Y Petition sent to CS 10 25 17. Petition 

suff/TR request due 12 26 17. TR requested 

11 21 17.

Nov 21 TBD

Calcium Acetate SB Petition sent to CS 1 20 17. Petition suff/TR 

request due 01 17 17.

Jan 16 TBD

Other Topics

Project ContactDoc type Notes* Disc/Vote Meeting

(Manure 

treatments)

Anaerobic 

Digestate - Food 

Waste

205.601(j) and 

other manure 

issues

EO/HB/J

M

Disc Doc Petition sent to CS 04 08 15. Questions or 

request for TR due 06 09 15. Petition found 

sufficient 06 02 15. TR rqst sent to NOP 10 

06 15. Petition withdrawn 10 14 15. CS 

moved project to “other topics” NOP 

sent memo to board 05 09 16 requesting 

review. TR request sent to NOP 07 05 16 

(see anaerobic digestate above). Waiting

for result of FDA’s risk assessment. 

Aug 1, 

Aug 15, 

2017

Spr 2018

Biodegradable 

Biobased Mulch

annotation change

HB/AB Disc Doc Limited scope TR request sent to NOP 08 02 

16. TR sent to CS on 12 28 16. TR Suff due 

02 27 17. CS found TR suff 01 03 17. 

Pending further research 

Aug 1, 2017 Spr 2018

Prohibition of NPEs 

in inerts -

annotation change/

EPA List 4 Inerts 

annotation change

HB/EO/

DM/AB

Disc 

Doc/Prop

IWG recommended NOSB work on NPEs/TR 

requested July 2014. 

DD - April 2016. 

EPA List 4 inerts disc doc (originated from 

2017 sunset review conducted in 2015). 

Pending EPA decision

TBD Fall 2018

Marine materials 

(marine algae and 

extracts) on the 

National List

EO Disc doc NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. Returned to CS at Spr 2017 

NOSB meeting. Referred back to CS at Spr 

2017 meeting

Aug 15, 

Dec 5

Spr 2018

Field and 

Greenhouse 

Container 

Production

JB, HB, 

FT and 

EO

TBD Jan 2 Spr 2018
Strengthen and 

clarify the 

requirements for 

use of organic seed 

(NOP 5029) 

HB Proposal Originated in MS. Referred back to CS at 

Spr 2017 meeting. Referred back to CS at 

Fall 2017 meeting.

Spr 2018

Research Priorities All NA RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

* Yellow highlight indicates Subcommittee action needed *Highlight indicates review completion

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018 

Substance Con

tact

TR 

requ

est?

Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alcohols: 

Ethanol 

Isopropanol 

205.601(a)(1)(i), 

205.601(a)(1)(ii)

JB N 1995 TAP; 2014 TR - Ethanol; 2014 

TR - Isopropanol

Jan 2 Summary: 

Spr 2018

Review: 

Fall 2018

Sodium 

carbonate 

peroxyhydrate 

205.601(a) EO N 2006 TAP; 2014 TR Dec 5 “

Newspaper or 

other recycled 

paper

205.601(b) and 

(c)

HB N 2017 TR Dec 5 “

Plastic mulch and 

covers 

205.601(b) HB N 1995 TAP: TR for biodegradable 

mulch. Low priority

Dec 19 “

Aqueous 

potassium 

silicate 

205.601(e), 

205.601(i)

DM N 2014 TR Jan 2 “

Elemental sulfur 205.601(e)(5), 

205.601(i)(10), 

205.601(j)(2)

AB Y 1995 TAP; 2017 TR for Livestock. TR 

requested 07 28 17. In contracting.

Dec 19 “

Lime sulfur 205.601(e)(6), 

205.601(i)(6)

SE N 2014 TR Dec 19 “

Sucrose 

octanoate esters 

205.601(e)(10) SB N 2005 TR Dec 19 “

Hydrated lime 205.601(i)(4) DM N 1995 TAP; 2001 TAP; 2002 TR for 

Calcium Hydroxide

Jan 2 “

Liquid fish 

products 

205.601(j) AB N 1995 TAP; 2006 TR Jan 2 “

Sulfurous Acid 205.601(j) SE N 2010 TAP; 2014 TR Dec 19 “
Ethylene 205.601(k) EO N 2000 Supplemental TAP; 2007 TAP; 

2011 Supplemental TR

Dec 19 “

Microcrystalline 

cheesewax 

205.601(o) SB Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. In 

contracting.

Dec 19 “

Potassium 

chloride 

205.602(e) JM N 1995 TAP. Low priority Jan 2 “

Agenda

• Approve notes from December 5, 2017 

• 2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Lime sulfur (SE) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Sulfurous Acid (SE) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Ethylene (EO) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Aqueous potassium silicate (DM) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Hydrated lime (DM) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Sucrose octanoate esters (SB) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Microcrystalline cheesewax (SB) - Discuss review

• Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals.

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Notes from December 5, 2017 were approved with a correction to the leads for the ammonium 

glycinate/citrate petitions.

• 2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB). The group discussed current uses of plastic mulches. 

There was a discussion of potential inconsistencies in certifiers’ interpretation in the requirement 

for removal when applied to perennial crops. NOP mentioned a recent incomplete petition that had 

come in on this topic. Members discussed concerns about incomplete removal of plastic pieces and 

recycling issues. The use of woven fabrics for perennials and biodegradable biobased mulch film 

were also discussed. Discussion included accurate uses of the terms “decomposition” vs. 

“degradation” (e.g., microbial degradation). Will be ready for a vote at the next CS call.

• 2020 sunset: Lime sulfur (SE). The lead provided an overview of the material’s history and uses in 

organic production. At this time, the Subcommittee is not aware of any viable alternatives to this 

substance; a question will be added to the proposal to solicit public comment on alternatives.

• 2020 sunset: Sulfurous Acid (SE). The lead provided an overview of the material and its use to 

acidify irrigation water for alkaline soils.

• 2020 sunset: Ethylene (EO). The lead provided an overview of the use of the material and the 

history of the last review, when it was proposed for removal. There were questions at that time 

with regard to scale of operations and availability of alternatives.

• 2020 sunset: Aqueous potassium silicate (DM). Deferred to next call.

• 2020 sunset: Hydrated lime (DM). Deferred to next call.

• 2020 sunset: Sucrose octanoate esters (SB). The lead provided an overview of the history, 

manufacturing process, and uses for the material. There was discussion of a previous public 

comment related to potential toxicity to non-target organisms; more comments may be requested 

on this topic. Additional questions will be added for comments on whether this product is still 

currently used, whether other products are more effective, and whether it’s used in rotation with 

other materials to avoid resistance. A member indicated difficulties in the application of the 

material as it may be difficult to work with. Pesticide data available from the state of California 

(which does not distinguish between organic and non-organic uses), indicated low use rates.
• 2020 sunset: Microcrystalline cheesewax (SB). The lead provided an overview of the history, 

manufacturing process, and use of the material. A technical report is in development. Additional 

information may be needed on the availability of alternatives. Previous comments indicated that 

natural beeswax is not allowed by FDA. There is interest in finding out more about the degradability 

of the material and clean-up. There was discussion about whether an updated annotation is needed 

to ensure sanitary clean-up of wax when mushrooms are produced in a natural environment.

• Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals. Postponed until next call.

• The meeting was adjourned 

Previous CS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2:00 ET)

December 5, 2017

Marine Materials (EO). Discussion of next steps

Natamycin (HB) - TR sufficiency

Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals.

2020 sunset: Sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate - (EO) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Newspaper or other recycled paper (HB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Lime sulfur (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Sulfurous Acid (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Ethylene (EO) - Discuss review

December 19, 2017

2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Lime sulfur (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Sulfurous Acid (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Ethylene (EO) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Sucrose octanoate esters (SB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Microcrystalline cheesewax (SB) - Discuss review

January 2, 2018

2020 sunset: Plastic mulch and covers (HB) – Review/vote on proposal

2020 sunset: Aqueous potassium silicate (DM) - Discuss review (postponed from Dec 19th call)

2020 sunset: Hydrated lime (DM) - Discuss review (postponed from Dec 19th call)

Sulfur (as a molluscicide) - Review/vote on proposal

2020 sunset: Alcohols: Ethanol Isopropanol (JB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Elemental sulfur (AB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Liquid fish products (AB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Potassium chloride (JM) - Discuss review

Discussion of future options for hydroponics/container proposals. (postponed from Dec 19th call)

January 16, 2018

Calcium Acetate (SB) - petition sufficiency/TR request

Polyoxin D Zinc salt (JB) - TR sufficiency

February 6, 2018

Allyl Isothiocyanate (AITC) - TR sufficiency (pending receipt of TR)

February 20, 2018

March 6, 2018

March 20, 2018

April 3, 2018

April 17, 2018

May 1, 2018

May 15, 2018

June 5, 2018
June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018