USDA says the number of certified organic operations in the U.S. increased by near 12 percent in 2015, continuing the trend of double-digit growth in the organic sector. New data released this week shows there are now more than 21,000 certified organic operations in the United States and more than 31,000 in the world. The data from the Agricultural Marketing Service’s National Organic Program says last year’s growth represents the highest growth rate since 2008 and an increase of nearly 300 percent since 2002. The total retail market for organic products is now valued at more than $39 billion in the United States and over $75 billion worldwide. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack responded to the data by saying “the increasing number of organic operations shows that USDA’s strong support for the vibrant organic sector is helping to create jobs and opportunities in rural communities.”