All applications must be postmarked by Feb. Additional information is detailed in the program guidelines. They must submit an MDA application form, proof of certification during the qualifying period, and copies of billing statements from their certifier that itemize the costs incurred. To qualify, applicants must be certified by a USDA-accredited organic certifying agency. 30, 2008 are not eligible for the '07-08 cost share rebate, but will be reimbursed through a subsequent program. Certified operations are eligible for reimbursement of 75 percent of certification-related costs that they incurred during the period between Oct. "This program provides some regulatory relief from a financial burden that is unique to organic operations," she said.įunds for this program come from a cooperative agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). "This certification assures consumers that organic products are really and truly organic, and that they are produced in compliance with federal organic regulations," said Moynihan.ĭepending on the farm or business size, the cost of certification can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per year, according to Moynihan. MDA Organic and Diversification Specialist Meg Moynihan says unlike conventional operations, organic growers and processors who sell more than $5,000 of organic agricultural products are legally required to annually retain an accredited third-party certifier at their own expense. Organic farmers and processors can receive a partial rebate for the cost of organic certification and must apply by February 28, 2009. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is now accepting applications for the 2007-08 organic certification cost share program. Organic certification cost share available The Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council (MCR&PC) directs Minnesota corn farmers’ investment in the corn check-off to enhance quality of life for corn producers. Your proof of checkoff must show: Name of producer Which commodity was sold (corn, dry beans, etc.) Purchaser name, town, and state Date the checkoff fee was deducted Amount of deduction NOTE: We need only one copy (or the originals) of each proof of checkoff. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is responsible for conducting and certifying agricultural promotion council elections.Īfter input from hearings held in December, the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council added another day to provide additional opportunity for producers to vote on the proposed check-off. to increase the state corn check-off rate from 1/2 cent to 1 cent per bushel. Include proof of checkoff assessment (settlement statements and/or check stubs). Commodity councils use these funds to pay for promotion, communication and research activities aimed at increasing crop value for growers. Through an automatic check-off program, farmers pay a percentage of their sale proceeds to their commodity council. 9, at Jackpot Junction Hotel and Casino in Morton, during the Minnesota Ag Expo 2009. The referendum vote will take place from 10 a.m. 8-9 referendum on a proposal by the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council to change the corn check-off from the present rate of a half-cent per bushel to 1 cent per bushel. Minnesota corn growers will have the opportunity to vote in a Jan.
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