Wisconsin Ag Connection - Application Period Open for Organic Cost Share

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Application Period Open for Organic Cost Share
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 07/18/2014

Organic food processors and producers may begin applying for reimbursement of costs related to organic certification through the USDA National Organic Program. Farms and businesses that produce, process or package certified organic agricultural products are eligible to be reimbursed for 75 percent of certification-related costs--up to $750 per category of certification--for expenses paid from October 1, 2013 through September 30, 2014. The farms or businesses must have received an initial organic certification or a renewal of certification during that time, and they must be located in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture has mailed the application forms to certified producers and processors, who can expect to receive them in the mail by August 1. Forms also will be available on DATCP's website and from DATCP staff. The deadline to apply is November 15.

Applications materials and instructions can be found in the packet mailed from DATCP or online at datcp.wi.gov/farms/organic_farming.

The funding for this popular program originated in the 2002 farm bill. The cost-share program was not available for the 2013 growing season, and participants cannot be reimbursed for money spent prior to October 1, 2013.

The funding comes from the federal government through the USDA National Organic Program. DATCP administers the funding.

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