The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Georgia (NRCS-GA) reminds farmers looking to transition to organic, the sign-up deadline for the Organic Transition Initiative (OTI) through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is June 15, 2023.
This Georgia NRCS sign-up follows a national announcement detailing the USDA’s multi-agency approach to assist producers beginning or in the process of transitioning to achieve organic certification. Only those producers are eligible to apply for this sign-up.
The new organic management standard gives producers the flexibility to get the assistance and education they need, such as attending workshops or requesting help from organic production experts or mentors. It supports conservation activities and practices required for organic certification and may provide foregone income reimbursement for dips in production during the transition period.
While NRCS does accept applications for conservation programs year-round, those interested should apply by June 15, 2023 to be eligible for this funding batch.
For more information, visit farmers.gov/your-business/organic.