By Scout Nelson
The North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) will host several Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Grower Training Courses designed to help fruit and vegetable growers strengthen their knowledge of safe food production.
“Fruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), and co-management of natural resources and food safety should attend,” Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said. “Attending a session will satisfy the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement that requires at least one supervisor or responsible party on a farm to complete food safety training recognized as adequate by the Food and Drug Administration.”
The training courses are free for produce growers and cost $100 for non-produce growers. Although priority will be given to North Dakota producers, the sessions are open to all fruit and vegetable growers across the United States.
The virtual courses will be held on December 10, 2025; January 14, 2026; January 28, 2026; and February 11, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participants must have an internet connection and an active camera to attend and receive a certificate of completion.
Topics will include:
- Introduction to produce safety
- Worker health, hygiene, and training
- Soil amendments and water use
- Wildlife and land management
- Postharvest handling and sanitation
- Developing a farm food safety plan
Each topic will highlight FSMA safety requirements and allow time for questions and discussions so participants can share experiences and ask practical questions.
To register, visit www.ndda.nd.gov/produce-safety-course. Course materials will be mailed before the training begins, ensuring every participant has the resources needed to learn and apply safety practices effectively.
This initiative supports NDDA’s goal of helping farmers grow safe, high-quality produce while meeting national food safety standards and protecting public health.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-valentinrussanov
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Rural Lifestyle