Learn about the Organic Farming Scheme in the United States, which provides financial support to farmers for sustainable farming practices and the production of organic foods.
Understanding the Organic Farming Scheme
The Organic Farming Scheme is a government initiative aimed at promoting sustainable farming practices and the production of organic foods. It provides financial support to farmers who meet the criteria and adhere to European Union standards. This article will delve into the details of the scheme and how it benefits both farmers and consumers.
( Credit to: Ifa )
To be eligible for the Organic Farming Scheme, farmers must complete an approved training course and manage the land included in their application. They also need to register as an organic operator with a private inspection body. The minimum farm area required for eligibility is 3 hectares, except for horticultural producers who need a minimum of 1 hectare.
The scheme allows for partial conversion to organic farming, but there are specific requirements. Different plant species or varieties must be used for organic and conventional crops to ensure easy differentiation. Similarly, different species must be involved in the production of organic and conventional livestock.
Payment Rates and Eligibility
The payment rates under the Organic Farming Scheme vary depending on the type of farming. Horticulture producers with an organic horticulture area of one hectare or more are eligible for payments ranging from €30/ha to €800/ha, depending on the conversion stage and farm size. Tillage producers with an organic tillage area of six hectares or more can receive payments ranging from €30/ha to €320/ha. Dairy producers with an organic area of six hectares or more are eligible for payments ranging from €30/ha to €350/ha. Lastly, dry stock farmers with at least 3 hectares of organic agricultural area can receive payments ranging from €30/ha to €300/ha.
In addition to the per-hectare payments, all participants in the Organic Farming Scheme will receive an annual participation payment to cover administrative costs. The first-year conversion payment is €2,000, followed by €1,400 for each subsequent year of the contract. Registered Farm Partnerships can receive the participation payment for each of the herdowners, up to a maximum of three.
Application Process and Contact Information
To apply for the Organic Farming Scheme, farmers must submit an application on the agfood.ie website. The online application for the Basic Income Support Scheme will serve as the annual payment claim under the Organic Farming Scheme. Farmers can also authorize an agricultural consultant or Teagasc advisor to apply on their behalf.
For further information or inquiries about the Organic Farming Scheme, farmers can contact the scheme’s office at Johnstown Castle Estate, Co. Wexford, Y35 PN52. They can also reach out via email at [email protected] or by phone at +353 53 9163425. Detailed terms and conditions of the scheme can be found on the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine’s official website.