Frequently Asked Questions

How is the BFF tier system structured?

Tier 1: Tier one is designated for beginners in their habitat development. Through your application responses, it was determined that you have either just begun working on your habitat or you only have pieces to the whole habitat puzzle. Tier one producers can access some of the benefits of the BFF Program.

Tier 2: Tier two is designated for producers who have most of the components necessary for pollinator habitat but are just missing small pieces. Tier two producers can access most benefits of the BFF Program, including logo use on media and marketing material.

Tier 3: Tier three is designated for those who have all key aspects of pollinator habitat on their farm. Tier three producers can access all benefits associated with the BFF Program except on-pack logo use. Tier three producers are strongly encouraged to pursue BFF 3rd Party Verified Certification.

BFF 3rd Party Certification: In 2023, Pollinator Partnership launched a third-party verified option for the BFF Program. This option complements the widely adopted BFF Program to meet sustainable sourcing requirements from global brands and retailers. Keeping with the BFF philosophy, we developed this option closely with farmers, brands, and sustainability partners to ensure effectiveness for farmers, brands, consumers, AND pollinators.

If I am enrolled in the BFF Program, can I use the BFF logo on my website and products?

Logo use is permitted for producers who qualify under Tier 2 and Tier 3 standards. Logo use is restricted to media and marketing material: websites, handouts, on social media, etc. On-pack logo use is restricted to BFF 3rd Party Certified farms.

Do I get a certificate when I enroll in the BFF Program?

In 2026, BFF transitioned from a second party verified certification program to a membership program. With this transition, producers complete a BFF assessment and receive a BFF report denoting their BFF IPM and Habitat Scores. BFF Program members will no longer receive “certificates,” but rather reports with scores that help track their progress in implementing pollinator habitat on their farmland. For those producers requiring certification, BFF 3rd Party Certification remains unchanged. BFF 3rd Party Certification is the only verification standard for those seeking certification, available now through Where Food Comes From.

My buyers/processors require I receive certification. What can I do to meet their sustainability requirements?

BFF still offers BFF 3rd Party Certification. See the BFF 3rd Party Manual to review the certification standards. If you feel confident your habitat meets the standards required for BFF 3rd Party Certification, contact bff@pollinator.org to begin pursuing certification.

How do I become BFF 3rd Party Certified?

Complete Application (link) and email to bff@pollinator.org. A BFF team member will reach out for any additional information needed before connecting you with Where Food Comes From, the exclusive BFF auditors.

How long does it take to become a BFF Program Member?

Once completing a BFF application, please allow BFF staff approximately one to three weeks (depending on volume on the applications received at the time of your application) to evaluate your application. A BFF Team member will follow up with you via the contact information you provided on your application if additional information is needed.

How long does it take to become BFF 3rd Party Certified?

One you have completed your BFF application a BFF team member will connect you to Where Food Comes From, the exclusive BFF auditors. Once the introduction is made, certification will take approximately six to eight weeks depending on your responsiveness.

I am having trouble with my pollinator habitat and IPM implementation. How do I receive additional assistance?

Contact bff@pollinator.org with a detailed description of the issues you are experiencing or with the questions you have. BFF staff will respond via phone or email to provide technical assistance to best help you with your habitat needs. If your questions are site specific or require more in-depth assistance, you may be directed to our consulting services. As a BFF Member, you receive up to 20% off consulting fees.

I am experiencing issues with the BFF Portal. What do I do?

Email bff@pollinator.org with a description of the issues you are experiencing or with the questions you have. BFF staff will respond via phone or email to best alleviate any issues you may be experiencing. If you are unable to complete the application through the portal, you can download the BFF application template (LINK) and email it to bff@pollinator.org. A BFF team member will reach out for any additional information needed before submitting your application to your file to generate your BFF report.