Aug 4, 2021

Oregon taps $109K for organic certification cost share

The USDA recently allocated more than $6 million for the National Organic Certification Cost Share Program nationwide.

Oregon was awarded $109,250 for the 2021 funding year. The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is a USDA-accredited certifying agent for organic crop production and handling/processing. The purpose of the National Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) is to reimburse organic operations for specific organic certification costs. Oregon is fourth in the nation in the sales of certified organic commodities, according to a news release from ODA.

“The past year has been difficult for Oregonians and the cost of receiving and maintaining organic certification should not be a barrier for Oregon producers wanting to compete in the organic marketplace,” ODA Director Alexis Taylor said in a news release. “Farms and businesses that produce, process, or package certified organic agricultural products are eligible for the 50% reimbursement of certification-related costs. I encourage our Oregon organic growers, processors and producers to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Congress authorizes the USDA to provide organic certification cost-share assistance to Oregon producers or handlers who have paid eligible costs from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021, according to the news release. In addition, Oregon producers or handlers that receive certification or renew their certification from a USDA-accredited certifier are eligible to receive reimbursement for 50% of eligible certification fees, up to a maximum of $500 per annual certification scope.

Completed applications and all necessary documents with proof of payment between October 1, 2020 – September 30, 2021, must be submitted by November 1, 2021, according to the news release. Reimbursements will be made on a first-come, first-served basis until all available funds have been disbursed. For completed applications, please allow 3-4 weeks to receive your reimbursement.

ODA is now accepting OCCSP applications. For more information, please visit the ODA webpage or contact the OCCSP at organiccostshare@oda.state.or.us or 503-986-6473.

Photo: USDA