HELENA -- Montana's organic farmers, ranchers and processors of organic food and agricultural products can receive cost-share funding to help offset certification costs under a program administered by the Montana Department of Agriculture.

Cost-share assistance is available to production or handling operations receiving certification or continuing with certification under the USDA National Organic Program for the period October 1, 2009 to September 30, 2010. The program reimburses 75 percent, or up to $750, of qualifying costs for certification. Funding is limited and is paid out by the department on a first-come first-served basis.

Application forms are available on the Montana Department of Agriculture's web site or by calling the department at (406) 444-7804.

Certification costs that qualify are annual application fees, inspection fees, and fees on organic sales. Entities that have both organic production and handling operations may apply for assistance for both.

Certified entities must have incurred their certification costs prior to applying for cost share reimbursement. Reimbursement for any certification costs incurred after September 30 will be deferred to the 2011 cost share program, if one is offered by USDA. First-time applicants must be able to document approval for certification prior to receiving cost-share funds.