Organic certification aid renewed
Federal funds have been renewed to assist Hawaii’s organic farmers, organic livestock operators and organic produce handlers with the cost of obtaining organic certification. The funds became available Thursday following two cooperative agreements between the state Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Organic farmers and livestock operators are required to have their farms and practices inspected annually and certified by an agent approved by the USDA. Seventy-five percent of the cost of this inspection and certification (up to a maximum of $750) is eligible for reimbursement under the Agricultural Management Assistance program authorized under the Federal Crop Insurance Act.
