Nov 27, 2019

USDA taking applications for organic farm transition funding

USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) on Nov. 21 posted a funding opportunity through its organic transitions program.

“It is expected that all projects will integrate research, education and extension activities, as appropriate to project goals, although some projects may be weighted more heavily than others in one or more of these areas,” according to the posting. “However, all proposals should have activities and impact in research and at least one of the other areas: education and extension.”

The organic transitions program will prioritize the areas of:

• Soil conservation.
• Pollinator health.
• Climate change mitigation, including greenhouse gasses.
• Development of educational tools for Cooperative Extension personnel and other agricultural professionals who advise producers on organic practices.
• Development of cultural practices and other allowable alternatives to substances recommended for removal from the National Organic Program’s National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances.

NIFA’s request for application covers two different funding cycles, FY2019 and FY2020.

Applications for the FY 2020 funding cycle must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 27, 2020.