By Blake Jackson
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) is reminding organic producers to apply for reimbursement of their certification costs.
This program is offered through the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Organic Cost Share Program.
"The National Organic Certification Cost-Share Program is an opportunity to recoup a significant portion of money that producers pay to receive their organic certification," says State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball. "I encourage all eligible producers and processors to apply for the program as soon as possible as funds are awarded on a first come, first serve basis.”
The deadline to apply is October 31, 2024. Applications can be submitted online or at a local USDA Service Center. The program reimburses 75% of certification or renewal costs, up to $750 per category (crops, livestock, etc.).
"Each year, USDA-organic certified and those farms transitioning to organic certification are invited to apply for reimbursement for some of the costs associated with receiving or maintaining certification.," says Katie Baildon of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York. "Apply today! The program is an effort to support farmers and processors who contribute to the environmental, climate, and human health benefits of practicing organic agriculture. Check with your certifier if you need copies of your invoices.”
New York boasts over 1,942 USDA-certified organic farms. Organic certification verifies that food and agricultural products are produced using methods that promote biodiversity, ecological stability, and resource recycling, minimizing environmental impact.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: New York, Government & Policy