Cost Share For Annual Organic Certification

Any food, feed or fiber sold or labeled as organic in the United States must meet U.S. Department of Agriculture organic requirements. USDA defines organic agriculture as “the application of a set of cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that support the cycling of on- farm resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity.” A fact sheet on the USDA website explains that “organic producers use natural processes and materials that contribute to soil, crop and livestock nutrition, pest and weed management, attainment of production goals, and conservation of biological diversity.”

With rising consumer demand and expanding local markets, the number of certified organic farms is increasing. However, the process of becoming a certified organic operation can be long, difficult and filled with on-going regulations and paperwork. The initial certification requires that USDA-accredited third- party certifiers inspect and approve organic farming and handling operations. And, to retain certified organic status, farmers must submit an annual update of their organic system plan and pay annual certification fees for yearly inspections.

This spring, certified organic farmers will have an opportunity to receive reimbursement for part of their annual certification costs. The United State Department of Agriculture National Organic Certification Cost Share Program (NOCCSP) will be offering producers and handlers up to 75% reimbursement of their annual certification costs, up to $750 per certification scope (crops, livestock, wild crops and handling). Some costs that will be eligible for reimbursement include application fees, inspection costs, and travel per diem for inspectors. Those interested can apply through their local USDA Service Center beginning March 20, 2017.

To learn more about USDA programs and efforts to support organic agriculture through standards, enforcement, certification, market information and funding, visit www.fsa.usda. gov/organic or www.ams. usda.gov.

COURTESY PHOTO Any food labeled as organic in the United States must meet U.S. Department of Agriculture organic requirements.