The Oregon Department of Agriculture announces the availability of cost-share rebate funds for certified organic farmers and processors. The funds, made available through the National Organic Certification Cost Share Program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) will reimburse up to 75 percent of certification costs, or up to $750 per year per certification scope. The rebates are available to cover certification expenses paid between October 1, 2016, to September 30, 2017, or for the period of October 1, 2017, to September 30, 2018. An estimated 846 certified organic growers, livestock producers and processor/handlers in Oregon are potentially eligible for partial reimbursement. The cost-share program makes it easier for certified organic businesses throughout the supply chain in defraying the costs associated with USDA organic certification, helping them meet growing consumer demand in the domestic and international marketplace. The application for the cost share rebate, as well as other information about the program, is available on ODA’s website at http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/programs/MarketAccess/MACertification/Pages/OrganicCostShare.aspx. Reimbursements will be on a first-come, first-served basis, based on receipt of the completed application packet, until available funding is exhausted. All applications must be received no later than October 31, 2018. Applicants may also apply at your local USDA Farm Services office. To locate the office nearest you search. https://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app?state=or&agency=fsa Questions regarding cost share funds for organic certification may be directed to ODA’s Marketing Program at (503) 872-6600 or agmarket@oda.state.or.us.
