If you grow organic – or plan to grow organic – the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services can help you receive partial reimbursement to offset your organic certification costs.
Growers who were, or will be, certified between Oct. 1, 2009 and September 30, 2010 are eligible to apply.
Funding is made possible through the 2008 Federal Farm Bill, which allows for reimbursement of 75% of the cost of organic certification up to $750 per applicant. The grants are now available on a first come, first served basis.
Those wishing to apply much complete the Virginia Organic Certification Cost Share Application Form, available at www.virginiagrown.com. Link to "USDA Organic Cost Share Program" to access the application.
The form must accompany a current copy of the producer's organic certificate from a USDA accredited Certifying Agency, a copy of the dated, paid invoice form the certifier showing the total cost of services rendered and a W-9 form, a copy of which is available on the VDACS organic site.
VDACS advises producers to apply early while funds are available but the form and documents must be completed and returned no later than November 1, 2010.
For more information contact Kent Lewis at kent.lewis@vdacs.virginia.gov or call 804.786.3951.