By Scout Nelson
The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) is now accepting applications for the National Organic Certification Cost Share Program (NOCCSP). This program provides funds to certified organic operators, helping to cover the costs associated with obtaining and maintaining organic certification under the National Organic Program.
Through the NOCCSP, farms, ranches, and businesses that produce, process, or package certified organic agricultural products can be reimbursed for eligible expenses.
The KDA may provide reimbursements for 75% of an operation’s total allowable certification costs, up to a maximum of $750 per certification scope. The scopes include crops, livestock, wild crops, and handling (i.e., processing).
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency awards the NOCCSP funds to eligible state agencies, which then work directly with organic operations to reimburse certification costs.
For the current funding period, KDA can reimburse costs incurred from October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024.
Applications for the cost share program are being accepted now through October 31, or until all funds are expended, whichever comes first. Applicants can submit their applications either by mail or email.
For more information about the program and to access the application forms, visit the KDA website or contact KDA grants coordinator Brittney Grother at Brittney.Grother@ks.gov or 785-564-6797.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture is offering valuable financial support to certified organic operators through the National Organic Certification Cost Share Program.
By reimbursing a significant portion of the certification costs, the program aims to encourage and support organic farming practices in the state. Interested operators should act quickly to apply, as funds are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Photo Credit: kansas-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Kansas, Government & Policy