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California agricultural producers who are certified organic or transitioning to organic production, may qualify for technical and financial assistance through a special initiative administered by USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Some $2 million in funding will be available to eligible producers in California as part of the agency's Environmental Quality Incentives Program. Organic producers must submit applications by March 12 for funding consideration during fiscal year 2010.

Noting that the EQIP deadline for most applicants was Jan. 15, District Conservationist Phil Hogan said the agency was allowing a bit more time for organic and transitioning producers to develop their conservation applications but stressed they should begin the process as soon as possible.

Hogan encourages organic producers and those transitioning to organic production to contact his office at 662-2037, ext. 111, and learn more about this opportunity before the March 12 sign-up deadline. - The Daily Democrat

Labels: California, California Agriculture, farmers, farming, Organic