NRCS Idaho Announces Sign-up for Organic Transition Initiative

BOISE, Idaho, May 9, 2023 - The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Idaho is now accepting applications for enrollment in the Organic Transition Initiative (OTI). As part of the multi-agency Organic Transition Initiative, USDA-NRCS will dedicate financial and technical assistance to a new organic management standard and partner with new organic technical experts to increase staff capacity and expertise.  

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis; however, to be considered for current available funding for the OTI, applicants should have their applications into their local field office by June 2, 2023. Only certain practices are eligible for funding under the OTI. To review them, please see the following attachment: 

NRCS will provide producers who adopt the new organic management standard with financial assistance. This opportunity supports conservation practices required for organic certification and may provide foregone income reimbursement for dips in production during the transition period. For more information about the Organic Transition Initiative, visit Organic Transition Initiative | Farmers.gov

To apply for OTI, contact NRCS at your local USDA Service Center. Find your local Service Center at www.farmers.gov/service-locator. Contact your Service Center to set up an in-person or phone appointment. On farmers.gov, you can create a secure account, apply for NRCS programs, electronically sign documents and manage your conservation contracts.

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