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USDA Organic Transition Initiative offers aid to producers

The USDA is announcing $75 million to help producers transition to certified organic production.

The Natural Resources Conservation Services has $70 million to help farmers with a new organic management standard as part of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.  The funds can be used for direct assistance with conservation practices or educational assistance like attending workshops.  State deadlines on the program will be announced later this year.

NRCS also has $5 million to partner with six organic technical experts for five years to develop regional networks, host hands-on organic training, and support USDA staff.