Fruit and Vegetable Farmers Could Qualify for Reimbursement
NASHVILLE, TN - The Tennessee Department of Agriculture has decided to administer a reimbursement program entitled the Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) Cost Share.
Like that of the Kansas Department of Agriculture reimbursement program first offered in the 2013-2014 year, this too will be an opportunity specifically for vegetable and fruit growers to see a return on some of their costs, in this case specifically in regards to certification for field or packing house audits.
Farmers eligible for the program must have their Good Agricultural Practices certification, according to a News Channel 5 report, and can be applied to 50 percent of an individual's certification costs up to $1,500. Costs that qualify for the program include application fees, inspection costs, and inspector travel.
According to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, fruit and vegetable production is an important part of the family farm, still ranking as one of the top five states in the nation in cash receipts for tomatoes and snap beans, specifically, however “Tennessee produce growers boast a diverse selection of fruit and vegetable crops,” according to the department site.
The program is operated on a first come, first serve basis, according to News Channel 5, and will continue until funds are depleted.
