By Scout Nelson
The North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) has announced an extension for applications to the Organic Certification Cost Share Program for fiscal year 2024
Organic farmers, ranchers, processors, and handlers are eligible to apply for reimbursement of certification costs incurred from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.
Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring stated, “Organic farmers, ranchers, processors and handlers can receive up to $750 of the organic certification costs paid during this period.”
This financial support aims to lessen the burden of the certification process, which verifies that products meet stringent organic standards and allows them to be marketed and sold with a federal organic seal. This seal not only assures consumers of the organic integrity of the products but also typically enables producers to command higher prices in the market.
For North Dakota producers certified by Where the Food Comes from Organic or the Organic Crop Improvement Association Chapter 1, applications should be submitted through these certifying bodies.
These organizations handle most of the organic certification within the state. All other producers should contact the NDDA directly at 701-328-2191 or via email at scbg@nd.gov to apply or receive further assistance.
Commissioner Goehring also highlighted that for 2024, the United States Department of Agriculture has awarded $97,500 to the NDDA to fund this reimbursement program, underlining the government’s commitment to supporting organic agriculture.
More details about the program guidelines and application forms are available on the NDDA’s official website. It is crucial for applicants to ensure that their applications are postmarked by November 15, 2024, the final deadline.
For those who prefer not to apply through the NDDA, assistance is available through the Farm Service Agency, offering alternative avenues for application and support.
Photo Credit:pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: North Dakota, General, Government & Policy