Organizations are raising money from the conventional produce industry and receiving government grants to rally against our messages about the benefits of organic products. They are attacking the scientists whose research shows the benefits of organic practices. And while this campaign emerged from the produce industry, it is not just a threat to the organic fruit and vegetable sector—it is a threat to organic overall.
Rest assured your trade association is actively pursuing all means of countering the naysayers. One exciting new tactic we are employing is a recently launched internet ad campaign called Connect the Dots. 
Our focus is connecting the dots for consumers between their increasing concerns regarding food choices and the organic solution. When and where timely news appears about conventional food production practices of concern, OTA will place an ad along side clearly positioning organic as the solution. In the face of what certainly will be more and more efforts by conventional agriculture and their media allies to downplay the value of organic, Connect the Dots provides a vehicle for us to be in many places at once to counter their claims and bolster support for organic purchases.
I know from talking with many of you that organic sales are on an upswing again. We have something valuable to protect and OTA is positioned to preserve the gains the industry has made and prevent hindrances to its continued growth. From our Washington D.C. office to our strong presence on the web via Facebook, Organic.It’s Worth It., the Savvy Organic Shopper, and postings to numerous blogs where “organic” is mentioned, OTA is ready to keep the momentum going for organic.
The Annual Fund provides critical resources for OTA's government affairs, media relations, and consumer marketing programs, including our new Connect the Dots campaign. Simply put – we can’t do it without you. Help us to help you and your organic business with a pledge to the OTA 2011 Annual Fund. Thank you!
Warmest regards,
Christine Bushway
Executive Director / CEO
Organic Trade Association
802-275-3833
703-922-4161 (DC office)
P.S. OTA extends its appreciation to WhiteWave Foods and UNFI for their recent Leadership Circle commitments. Your support at any level will make a difference in what we can accomplish for organic in 2011!
