The Ohio Ecological Food & Farm Association was founded in 1979 and is a grassroots coalition of farmers, backyard gardeners, consumers, retailers, educators, researchers, and others who share a desire to build a healthy food system that brings prosperity to family farmers, helps preserve farmland, offers food security for all Ohioans, and creates economic opportunities for our rural communities.
For more than 30 years OEFFA has used education, advocacy, and grassroots organizing to promote local and organic food systems, helping farmers and consumers reconnect and together build a sustainable food system, one meal at a time.
What We Do:
- Annual Conference--Ohio's largest ecological agriculture conference features nationally-recognized speakers, a trade show, entertainment, and fabulous locally-sourced meals. Each conference features more than 60 workshops taught by experienced OEFFA members, farmers, and researchers on sustainable farming, gardening, and living.
- Organic Certification--One of the oldest, largest, and most respected programs in the nation, OEFFA's Certification program ensures that organic crop and livestock producers meet the high standards established for organically grown food. The process of documentation and monitoring, strict production standards, and on-site inspections sets organic products apart from all others. These standards protect farmers, distributors, consumers, and the environment.
- Farm Tours and Workshops--Our annual series of free public tours features organic and ecological farmers and gardens in Ohio, providing unique opportunities for growers, educators, and conscientious eaters to see, taste, feel, and learn what alternative production systems are all about from the real experts, the farmers themselves. We also offer workshops and other educational opportunities that help people learn real skills like composting, beekeeping, and more.
- Learning from Each Other--OEFFA members are an invaluable source of practical knowledge and experience. Our membership directory helps members network with each other. OEFFA's apprenticeship program links students and other aspiring farmers with knowledgable growers and in turn provides Ohio farmers with labor and support.
- Keeping You Connected--OEFFA's newsletter keeps members updated on OEFFA's work as well as regional, state, and national news. Farm profiles, practical tips, book reviews, resources, and events are included in every thought-provoking issue. We also work to grow our local and organic food supply and connect consumers with local farmers through our local foods directory, the Good Earth Guide.
- Legislation--OEFFA monitors state and federal legislation and advocates for policies that protect and benefit sustainable agriculture, research and education, farm and farmland practices, and citizens' right to know.
- Pathways to Profitability--A good dinner can satisfy more than our appetite. A vibrant, local food system can provide Ohio's family farmers with a secure income, while protecting our environment. By breaking down the barriers that small farmers face, providing direct assistance and organic certification, promoting local products, and educating consumers, we help create economic success for today's farmers, while empowering the next generation of beginning and transitioning farmers. Together, we are working to re-create a regionally-scaled processing and distribution system that moves food from farm to local fork.
Learn more about how OEFFA is making a real difference for Ohio's local and organic food systems.
Read 12 reasons why it is important to buy local and organic.



Any local area in which at least 10 members reside may form a local chapter. Chapters are a great way to meet and network with other OEFFA members in your area.
Information on How to Start a Chapter
Chapters Information and Contacts
![]()
Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association
41 Croswell Rd.
Columbus OH 43214
Phone: 614.421.2022 Fax: 614.421.2011













