LANSING, Mich. — Certification requirements are just one item on the list that inches up the costs of producing organically grown foods, but a provision renewed in the 2014 farm bill will allow certified organic growers to recoup some of that expense.

The program will cover 75 percent of allowable certification costs including inspection fees, user fees and certifier required testing. Payment is limited to $750; however, if the farm is certified in multiple categories – for instance, crops and livestock – it is eligible to receive reimbursement in each category of certification.

In order to qualify, a farm must have been inspected and certified by an accredited National Organic Program (NOP) certifying agent between Oct. 1, 2013-Sept. 30, 2014.

Robin Rosenbaum, plant industry manager, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said, "We are trying to spread the word; we have sent a mailing to approximately 560 Michigan organic producers taken from the NOP website and have communicated with (Michigan State University) extension."

Organic certification reimbursement was available during the previous farm bill; however, payments have not been made since 2012 when the legislation lapsed. Funds were not allocated for the program during the interim. "Each state that enters into a cooperative agreement with the USDA to administer the program offers reimbursement," Rosenbaum explained. Organic producers should seek out application instructions through their state’s department of agriculture.

"The paperwork in Michigan has just been completed, and farmers can begin submitting their applications. We had to estimate the amount of dollars we would need to cover our growers, but if we run short on funds, we can apply for additional money."

Katie Brandt of Groundswell Farm in Zeeland said, "We will be applying for cost-share this year and it will cover 75 percent of the $950 cost of applying for organic certification through OEFFA, our certifier."

Brandt, along with husband and business partner, Tom Cary, operate a seven-acre intense crop farm that provides 160 community supported agriculture shares, sells at two farmers’ markets and supplies produce to four health food stores. The business supports two full-time farmers and five seasonal employees in southwestern Michigan. Oct. 1 is the application deadline and qualifying participants from Michigan can find more information at www.michigan.gov/mdard/0,4610,7-125--334056--,00.html

"It is good to know that USDA is supporting small-scale and organic farmers through this program," Brandt added.