Organic Valley

Organic Valley is one of the largest organic farmer-owned cooperatives in the United States, headquartered in La Farge, Wisconsin. Founded in 1988 by a group of family farmers seeking economic stability through collective marketing, the cooperative has grown to represent nearly 1,600 small family farms located across more than 30 states. Organic Valley’s model ensures that farmers receive fair and stable pricing for their products, protecting them from the price volatility that affects conventional agricultural markets. The cooperative produces a wide range of certified organic products including dairy, eggs, meat, and produce, all sourced from farms that adhere to strict organic standards and animal welfare requirements. Organic Valley emphasizes pasture-raised production and requires its dairy cows to spend a minimum amount of time on pasture, reflecting its commitment to animal welfare and soil health. The cooperative invests significantly in sustainability initiatives including research on carbon farming, soil health improvements, and reducing the environmental footprint of its member farms. It also engages in farmer support programs, providing educational resources, community infrastructure, and direct technical assistance. Organic Valley has become a recognized leader in demonstrating that family-scale organic farming can be economically viable and environmentally responsible, making it a model cooperative for sustainable food systems globally.