“As employees, we organized because we care deeply about Oregon Tilth’s mission, the work we do, and the communities we serve.”
Corvallis, OR – Following a staff-led effort to unionize, Oregon Tilth has voluntarily recognized
Oregon Tilth Workers United (OTWU), an affiliate of the Office and Professional Employees
International Union (OPEIU) Local 11. This milestone reflects the organization’s ongoing
commitment to fostering a workplace rooted in the values of integrity, transparency, and
equity that define its leadership in organic agriculture.
For over 50 years, Oregon Tilth has worked to build a biologically sound and socially equitable
food and agriculture system. As a nonprofit leader in education, advocacy, and organic
certification, the organization remains deeply committed to upholding fair labor standards—
both in the operations it certifies and within its own workforce.
Unionization as a Strength for Social Change Organizations
The rise of unionization among nonprofit and mission-driven organizations reflects a broader
movement toward democratizing workplaces and building sustainable organizations. At Oregon
Tilth, a supermajority of eligible employees signed onto a letter asking for voluntary recognition
of their union.
“The employees of Oregon Tilth are pleased by the voluntary recognition of Oregon Tilth
Workers United (OTWU), and we look forward to working together to strengthen this
organization,” said Margaret Liddiard, a senior inspector at Oregon Tilth. “As employees,
we organized because we care deeply about Oregon Tilth’s mission, the work we do and
the communities we serve. Together we can create a stronger, more resilient workplace
that is aligned with the values of empowerment, integrity, courage and compassion that
Oregon Tilth promotes and supports.”
To ensure a smooth and equitable process, Oregon Tilth sought expert guidance on high-road
labor relations to help leadership review and respond to the request for recognition. This
approach underscores Oregon Tilth’s commitment to constructive collaboration and respect for
employees’ right to organize.
By creating a formal structure for collaboration, unionization helps ensure that staff are
represented during key decisions, supported in building their careers, and empowered to cocreate
a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Unionizing affirms the values that Oregon
Tilth has cultivated since its inception—strengthening the organization’s ability to fulfill its
mission and better support the communities and clients we serve.
“At Oregon Tilth, we believe that a resilient and just food system starts with the people
who bring it to life,” said Chris Schreiner, CEO of Oregon Tilth. “Just as we champion
integrity and fairness in agriculture, we recognize the importance of a workplace where
every team member feels valued, heard, and supported. We appreciate the dedication
of our staff and look forward to working collaboratively with OTWU to strengthen
Oregon Tilth for the future.”
As Oregon Tilth and OTWU begin the next phase – negotiating for a first collective bargaining
agreement – both parties look forward to continuing a process rooted in good faith, mutual
respect, and a shared commitment to Oregon Tilth’s mission and long-term success.
About OPEIU Local 11
OPEIU Local 11 represents nearly 1,800 employees across five states: Washington, Oregon,
Idaho, Utah, and Montana. OPEIU Local 11’s members work in local governments, offices,
mental health care facilities, nonprofits, and utilities. Through OPEIU Local 11, employees have
a voice on the job and an avenue to equality, fair treatment, and economic security. Learn more
online at OPEIU11.org.
OPEIU Local 11’s wall-to-wall unit at Oregon Tilth, known as Oregon Tilth Workers United
(OTWU), covers about 80 employees working in organic education, advocacy, certification, and
administrative roles.
About Oregon Tilth
Oregon Tilth is a nonprofit national leader in education, advocacy, and organic certification
committed to advancing a sustainable and equitable food system. The organization supports
farmers, businesses, and communities through diverse service offerings.
As a trusted certifier, Oregon Tilth ensures compliance with the highest organic and
sustainability standards, including the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) and Global
Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Learn more at tilth.org.
