The formation of the Similkameen Okanagan Organic Producers Association (SOOPA) was initiated in 1986 with ten founding members. It was the first organic certification organization in British Columbia, formed to draft standards and develop a certification process for the local organic farm community. SOOPA now certifies to the BC Certified Organic Program (BCCOP) for products marketed within BC.

SOOPA has served as a model in the organic sector and has inspired other many other organizations in the area. The Similkameen Valley currently has the highest concentration of organic growers per capita in Canada.