New! Update on Organic Cost Share

VMSMA has been seeking updates on the status of the organic cost share program based on questions from members. Recently, we heard from both Wendy Wilton (USDA, FSA State Executive Director) and the Vermont Organic Farmers team about some progress. 

On July 7, USDA published a final rule advancing implementation of the FY2025 and FY2026 Organic Certification Cost Share Program (NOCCSP) and Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) cost-share funding. The rule maintains the full reimbursement rate of 75% of eligible certification costs, up to $750 per certification scope. The next step is for USDA to provide states with 30 days to decide whether they will administer the program. While the timeline for distributing funds to eligible organic farmers and handlers is still uncertain, publication of the final rule is a major milestone and moves the program one step closer to making cost-share payments available.

You can find the USDA's news release on this topic on their website HERE. We'll provide more details soon about who in Vermont will be administering this program (we're assuming the Agency of Ag, but have not yet received verification).

NEW INFORMATION: USDA is expected to open the application process for state agencies to administer the program, allowing the Vermont Agency of Agriculture to once again provide reimbursements, as it has in previous years. Generally, working through the Agency has made the application process simpler for producers and helping ensure reimbursements are processed efficiently.

If you are using VOF as a certifier, they encourage you to apply for reimbursement through the Vermont Agency of Agriculture as they coordinate paperwork to make it easier for you. No matter your certifying agency, you can also apply directly through your local FSA office. 

We will provide additional guidance on reimbursement through Vermont as soon as it becomes available. Using the Vermont Agency of Agriculture process has historically been the easiest option for most producers and helps coordinate reimbursements between state and federal agencies. The Agency of Agriculture will also post updates on their website. The deadline for applications is December 31, 2026.