Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection

​​​​​​​​​​​​Organic Cer​tification and Cost Share Program Webinar ​

Presenters from DATCP, FSA, and MOSES share tips on how to become certified organic, apply for cost share reimbursement, and access org​anic learning opportunities. 

​Organic Certification Cost Share Program

The Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) helps organic farmers and processors pay for organic certification. Funding comes from the federal government, and the program is administered through DATCP.

Organic farms and companies that sell, process, or package certified organic agricultural products are eligible to receive 50% of certification-related costs incurred, with a maximum of $500 for each category/scope if they meet the following criteria:

• They received initial or continuation/renewal of certification or are in the process of becoming certified organic to USDA National Organic Program (NOP) standards in the appropriate time period, and
• The certified operation is located in Wisconsin.

If certified in more than one category (e.g. crops, livestock, wild crop, or handler), a producer or handler is eligible for up to $500.00 for each category.

Funding for this program is provided by and contingent upon funds provided by cooperative agreement between the USDA Agricultural Marketi​ng Service and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection. (DATCP).

The program typically opens up in July of each year. At that point, the OCCSP application along with other program information will be made available.

FYI: Published Aug. 10, 2020 in the Federal Register: " For FY 2020 through 2023, FSA is revising the reimbursement amount to 50 percent of the certified organic operation's eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $500 per scope. This change is due to the limited amount of funding available and will allow a larger number of certified organic operations to receive assistance."

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Organic Consumer Guide​

Organic Consumer Guide and other promotional and educational materials that support the growth of organic food production and sales in Wisconsin.

Organic Advisory Council​

Twelve-member Council provides guidance to the Secretary of Agriculture, the Governor, the Legislature, and other state agencies on actions that can be taken to further the Wisconsin organic industry.

Publications

Wisconsin Local Food Marketing Guide​

A 106-page guide for food producers interested in entering local food markets​

Contact​

Andrew Bernhardt​
Organic Agriculture Programs Specialist
(608) 572-0512
andrew.bernhardt@wisconsi​n.gov​