By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has allocated an additional $8.7 million to organic dairy producers under the Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program (ODMAP) 2024. This funding is designed to mitigate the effects of market instability, rising input costs, and transportation expenses, which have significantly impacted the organic dairy sector.
USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) had already distributed $23 million in the program’s first round of payments, bringing total ODMAP funding to over $31 million for 2024. These payments are intended to help producers weather ongoing market challenges and sustain operations.
“This funding gives organic dairy producers critical support as they continue to weather a combination of challenges outside of their control,” stated Kelly Adkins, FSA State Executive Director in Texas.
ODMAP applications were accepted from September 30 to December 13, 2023. Payments are based on producers’ 2023 marketing costs or projected 2024 costs for operations with increased production. This one-time cost-share payment supports certified organic dairy producers by offsetting marketing expenses tied to organic milk production.
By addressing immediate financial needs, ODMAP 2024 ensures that organic dairy operations can remain sustainable until market conditions improve. USDA’s continued support underscores its dedication to strengthening the organic dairy industry amid unprecedented challenges.
Photo Credit:usda
Categories: National