2009 PRESS RELEASES

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January 15, 2009
REIMBURSEMENT FUNDS AVAILABLE NOW FOR ORGANIC CERTIFICATION
Contact: Marion Horsley, 804.225.3820

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has announced that funds are now available for organic growers in Virginia to apply for partial reimbursement to offset their organic certification costs.  Organic growers who were certified or recertified beginning October 1, 2008 are eligible to apply for 2008-2009 cost share funds through a program offered by VDACS. 

Virginia has received an allocation of $50,000 in cost share funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Organic Program.  The 2008 Federal Farm Bill allows for reimbursement of 75% of the cost of organic certification, up to a total of $750 per grower.  Reimbursement funds are available on a first come, first served basis. 

To apply, growers must complete the Virginia Organic Cost Share Authorization Form, click on USDA Organic Cost Share Program.  The form must accompany a copy of the farm’s organic certification from an accredited USDA Certifying Agency for the current fiscal year and a copy of the invoice showing total cost of services rendered.  The form and documents should be returned to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services by the federal fiscal year end, September 30, 2009.  VDACS encourages producers to apply immediately and not wait for the September 30 deadline.

Producers with questions should contact Leanne DuBois, VDACS Manager of Direct Marketing Services, at 804.225.3663 or e-mail leanne.dubois@vdacs.virginia.org.