Posted: 07.11.2011

Organic farms and companies that sell, process, or package organic agricultural products can now apply for the organic cost share program through the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).

The program provides for a 75% cost share of certification costs with a maximum payment of $750 per farm or operation. If you are certified in more than one certification category; such as crops, livestock, and handler; you are eligible for reimbursement up to $750 for each category.

Tricia Boss of Luna Circle Farm in Rio grows organic vegetables to sell through a farmers’ market and CSA shares. Boss uses the cost share program to offset the cost of certification and encourages others to do the same.

“Applying for the organic cost share program is very easy in Wisconsin,” said Boss. “Organic certification can be expensive, but with the cost share program, I am able to get a little something back while still meeting the needs of my customers who want certified organic products.”

This program provides cost share assistance to producers or handlers of organic agricultural products who are currently certified by a USDA/NOP Accredited Certifying Agent. All certified organic farmers and companies are eligible for reimbursement annually.

Reimbursements are made on a first-come, first-serve basis until the application postmark deadline of October 31, 2011 or until funds are exhausted. Any certification related expenses; including inspection fees, user fees, and certifier-required testing; paid from October 1, 2010 – September 30, 2011 can be reimbursed through this application.

“Wisconsin ranks second in the nation in the number of organic farms with over 1,200 certified organic farms, and we have over 200 companies certified to process organic products, said Laura Paine, DATCP’s Organic Agriculture Specialist and coordinator of the cost share program. “This is a very popular program in Wisconsin. Nearly half of our certified organic farms participate.”

Application materials will be mailed to all certified organic farmers and processors before the end of July. They are also available at datcp.wi.gov/Farms/Organic_Farming/Cost_Share_Program/.

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