The application deadline for reimbursement for organic certification costs has been extended to Nov. 30. Applications will be accepted for reimbursement of organic certification costs through the Organic Certification Cost Share Program for fiscal year 2022 through the end of next month.
"Organic farmers, ranchers, processors and handlers can receive up to $500 of the organic certification costs paid between Oct. 1, 2021, and Sept. 30, 2022," Goehring said.
Certification assures consumers that products are produced by recognized organic methods. Certification enables organic producers and processors to label and sell their products with a federal organic seal. Such products typically command a higher price in the marketplace.
Applicants must provide a 2022 cost share application form; a copy of a dated certificate or letter from a certifier verifying certification between Oct. 1, 2021, and Sept. 30, 2022; an itemized statement showing payment between Oct. 1, 2021, and Sept. 30, 2022; and are required to set up an account with Vendor Registry at https://www.nd.gov/omb/vendor/vendor-payments. Applications must be postmarked by Nov. 30, 2022, but are reimbursed on a first-come, first-serve basis until funds are depleted.
Applicants who are certified by International Certification Services or the Organic Crop Improvement Association Chapter 1 should apply for reimbursement through the certifier. These organizations certify most North Dakota organic producers. All other producers should contact Deanna Gierszewski at the North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) at 701-328-2191 or degierszewski@nd.gov.
Goehring said the U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded the NDDA with $70,800 for the certification reimbursement program for 2022.
Potential applicants that do not wish to apply through the NDDA can request assistance from the Farm Service Agency.
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy, Livestock