Applications are accepted year-round. The certification process typically takes between two and six months to complete. North Jersey RC&D service area: Hunterdon, Warren, Sussex, Morris, Somerset and Union counties in NJ:    Contact North Jersey RC&D staff

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1. COMPLETE THE APPLICATION

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The River Friendly Farm Certification evaluates farms based on the techniques and practices employed in five categories:  

 

• Soil Health

• Nutrient Management

• Pest Management

• Farmstead Management

• Waterway Protection and Water Conservation

 

Applicants apply online OR complete a paper version of the River Friendly Farm Application Form. 

 

Please contact your local Partner organization above to:

1) express your interest in the certification,

2) ensure submission of your application, and

3) ask any questions you may have.

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Complete an online application

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2. RFF CERTIFIERS REVIEW APPLICATION

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River Friendly Farm Certification Agents will review your application. If needed, they may contact you to ask for additional clarification or information.​

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3. CERTIFICATION VISIT

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If the certifier deems your farm ready for a certification visit, the certifier will coordinate with you for an on-site visit to check the compliance of your systems and practices with the River Friendly Farm Certification standards.

• During the on-site visit, the certification agent will discuss your application in-depth and tour your farm to ensure all relevant criteria are met. 

• Farm visits typically take between 2 to 4 hours.

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4. CERTIFICATION DECISION

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Approved certifying agents, in coordination with the local certification committee, will make the final decision to approve or deny the certification.​

• If the decision is to deny certification, the agent will provide a written explanation outlining what changes would need to be made or practices installed in order for the certification to be considered for approval at a later point.  In addition, agents will suggest any cost-share program, grants or other resources to guide conservation improvements.  

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5. AWARDED CERTIFICATION

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Once your River Friendly Farm Certification is approved, you will receive a letter from the local certification committee. Your farm information will then be uploaded to the River Friendly Farm website. Farms will receive the River Friendly Certified™ logo to be displayed on the farm website and any farm products.

 

In addition, your farm will receive a River Friendly Farm Certificate and Metal Sign to be awarded at a time of the applicant's choosing.

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6. CERTIFICATION MAINTENANCE

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Recertification occurs every year online. Spot checks occur once every 5 years.