Contamination of any certified soil or product by a prohibited substance, whether intentional or accidental, will result in immediate suspension of certification of all affected sites and products.  Official written notice must be made to the Certification Board within 48 hours of the occurrence, with a copy retained in your file.  Growers must make every effort to be aware of, and to prevent or restrict all possible sources of such contamination, including unwanted aerial or roadside spraying. Examples of such efforts would be writing letters to highway departments, railroad companies, and adjoining farms requesting information on current spray programs and requesting no further spraying be done.  Copies of these letters should be placed in your file.  Farmers are encouraged to work with their neighbors to promote good relations and understanding of the issues important for organic farmers.

A minimum fifty foot buffer zone between certified organic fields and non-certified areas of potential contamination (including neighboring farms, suburban yards, roadways) is required. The Standards and Certification Boards recognize that each site is unique, and that the inspector’s report is vital to evaluate any potential contamination problems. A reduced buffer zone may be approved if a dense hedgerow or other physical barrier is present. Additional documentation such as detailed surveys or field maps, photographs, videotapes or other supporting documentation may be required.  The Certification Board will review buffer reduction requests on a case-by-case basis. Since commonly used pesticides are short lived and not easily detected, and a fifty foot buffer is not always practical or sufficient, the Certification Board may request other options, such as the establishment of a windbreak, earthen barrier or other physical barriers, or the receipt of affidavits from neighbors detailing spraying history and practices.  Residue testing may be required if suspected contaminating material is deemed detectable given the specific situation and present analytical capabilities.  Crop residue levels must be no more than 5% of the EPA tolerances, as recommended by the National Organic Standards Board. 

All equipment must be maintained to protect soil, water and feed from fuel, lubricants and anti-freeze.  Care must be taken to prevent leaks and spills.  Above and below ground storage tanks must be maintained to prevent leaks.