Mike Evans
Organic Cost Share Reimbursement 
Tele: (770) 228-7215
Email: Mike.Evans@agr.georgia.gov

People throughout the U.S. are interested in organic or "naturally produced" foods.  However, although similar in principle, growing crops or producing milk, beef or chicken naturally or without use of pesticides, hormones or antibiotics is very different from “organic” farm production. Legally, there are steps that growers, livestock producers, food processors (including handlers or distributors) must follow before the word “organic” can appear on the label.

First, organic fruits, vegetables, milk, meat products, etc. must be produced and handled according to the National Organic Program (NOP) regulations and standards. All producers selling more than $5,000 of organic products in a calendar year must have their operation inspected and certified by a USDA approved state or private certifying agency. This certification gives confidence to the consumer that all products labeled “organic” have been produced under the same standards. Currently in Georgia, only private certifying agents perform this service and each agent must register with the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) annually. 

Producers that sell less than $5,000 worth of organic products a year are exempt from the organic certification requirements (termed “exempt grower/producers”) but still must comply with the NOP regulations. Organic products from exempt growers/producers may not be used in processed food products label as organic but may be sold at farmer markets and retail stores. Also, “Certified Organic” cannot be used on product labels from exempt growers/producers. Those that intend to file for an exempt status must complete the appropriate forms in this package and return to GDA.

All organic producers must register with the Georgia Department of Agriculture.  

National Organic Certification Cost Share Program
Certified Handlers and Producers are eligible to  receive up to 75% (maximum $750) of their certification expenses. To qualify, producers and handlers must be certified by a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) accredited certifying agent and the certification expenses must be incurred during the current Federal Fiscal Year (Oct. 1, 2011 through Sept. 30, 2012).  Interested persons should apply as soon as possible because funds are limited.licants.