IPM
Verification
Food product certification programs using IPM-based
requirements, including The Food Alliance, CORE Values, Wegmans Food
Markets and the Cornell IPM label, are growing in size and number.
(See LINKS for more details on these and other
programs.) These
programs use trained individuals to conduct on-site visits with applicants
and participating farmers to verify compliance.
IPM Certification models developed in agriculture have
now been adapted for use in Community IPM, with the first IPM
certification program for schools.
A cooperative facility that would recruit, train and
certify inspectors can help these programs continue to grow efficiently,
and minimize costs for both programs and participants. The IPM Institute has been working to develop a policy for
such a facility.
The IPM Institute
Certified Inspector Program for training
and approving verification professionals is the result of reviews of other
programs, including organic certification, and input from potential
participants. These GUIDELINES are now part of the IPM Institute Handbook.
Elements of the IPM Verification Program can be found at
the following links:
