The Canterbury Commercial Organics Group [CCOG] is a non-profit, charitable trust, run by people active in the organic industry, for the benefit of people in the organic industry.



Its vision is to expand the organic industry in the Canterbury region.



It aims to do this through the provision of information, networking, encouragement and mutual support for people interested in organics.



Its objectives include:



The production of a quarterly newsletter

Organising field days, seminars and workshops

Promotion of organic farming in local and national media

Linking with certifying bodies and other organic and environmental groups.



Since 1997 CCOG has produced a consistently excellent newsletter, convened many field trips to various properties and held its now traditional Midwinter Feast. The Feast, like the field days is always well-attended and involves some very inspirational speakers. The field days and other events are open to all, making them a valuable first port-of-call for those growers who may be thinking about converting to organics, but who aren`t sure about how to go about it.



Many people have said how valuable a regional organic network is. It can only survive however, if people are prepared to get involved.



For just $10-15 you can receive a years subscription to the CCOG newsletter with details of farm walks, events, information and news specifically aimed at those in commercial organics, and at the same time support to the volunteers who run CCOG.



It is run by a small committee of unpaid volunteers who currently include Robyn Patchett, Rex Verity, Mary Ralston and Sue Cumberworth. The committee meets monthly to run the group and organise events.



We are always keen to have new committee members or volunteers to help organise events.