It is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs that restore, maintain, and enhance ecological harmony. Which brings us to beer. Those among us with sensitive constitutions will be glad to know that barley and hops can be grown organically and processed without the use of scary chemical additives or cleaners.
Many people wisely choose to avoid ingesting synthetic and petroleum-based chemicals.
For some it's a political choice as people become increasingly disgusted with the destructive aspects of conventional farming and its effect on water quality and soil nutrient depletion. Still others choose to support small organic farmers because they like to root for the little guy. Third-party certification agencies act as clearinghouses for information to farmers and the public alike, as well as providing independent testing to ensure farmers' compliance with stated claims. Some producers use organic ingredients and methods but choose not to certify at all due to the expense. Oregon's third-party program, the Oregon Tilth Certification Program , possesses the most stringent guidelines of all tilth organizations in the country.