At the University of Wisconsin Arlington Agricultural Research Station (AARS), research with low-input and organically managed cropping systems began in the late 80’s with the establishment of a long term cropping systems trial. Over the years, researchers and staff at AARS have gained a better understanding of the timing, and equipment needs to control weeds mechanically and without herbicides. Also, it is now better understood on how crop rotations and cover crops can be used in organic cropping systems to control weeds and pest, provide erosion control, and supply nitrogen to meet grain crop requirements.
With the interest growing in organic agriculture, it was decided to establish certified organic acreage within AARS acreage in2002. We will report on how we transitioned to organic, and the challenges of operating a parallel system of managing both organic and conventional acreage often with the same equipment. We will also present the time and effort involved in certifying organic acreage and the on-going recordkeeping needed to meet the certification requirements. The development of the machinery set and certified land has made it possible for a number of researchers to develop successful grant proposals to address research questions from the organic farming community.