Ag Producers Looking to Transition to Organic Can Apply for USDA's Organic Certification Program

Saturday, May 21st, 2022 -- 8:01 AM

(Wisconsin Ag Connection) Agricultural producers who are certified organic or looking to transition to organic production can now apply for the USDA's Organic and Transitional Education Certification Program or the Organic Certification Cost Share Program.

According to the Wisconsin Ag Connection, the initiatives aim to help cover the cost of organic certification, along with other related expenses. Applications for OTECP and OCCSP are both due October 31, 2022.

"By helping with organic certification costs, USDA has helped producers participate in new consumer driven markets while investing in the long-term soil and financial health of their operations," said State Farm Service Agency Director Gene Schriefer.

He continued, "We launched the Organic and Transitional Education Certification Program to build on the support offered through the Organic Certification Cost Share Program and provide additional assistance to organic and transitioning producers weathering the continued market impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic."

Schriefer adds that organic research underway in Wisconsin and other states demonstrates that, with management, crop yields are comparable to conventionally grown crops, dramatically improving profit margins.

"This year, in response to stakeholder feedback, we have aligned the signup dates for these two organic programs and encourage Wisconsin producers to work with the local USDA Service Centers and State agencies to complete the applications," he said.

"We're committed to making sure our nation's organic producers and handlers have the tools they need to continue positively shaping our local and regional food systems." The OTECP program covers certification costs for organic producers and handlers.

It also helps pay for fees for pre-certification inspections and development of an organic system plan. Meanwhile, OCCSP covers 50 percent or up to $500 per category of certification costs in 2022. For more information, contact your local county FSA office.

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