Colorado Fruit & Veg Farmers Have Audit Funding Help Available

BROOMFIELD, CO – Colorado farmers who raise fruits and vegetables are getting a bit of help – in the form of a reimbursement –from the Colorado Department of Agriculture. Fruit and veggie producers who apply for an audit from USDA for Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) or Good Handling Practices (GHP) will be eligible to have up to half of audit costs reimbursed by the Ag. Department.

Verification audits can be pricy: Some cost up to $500, the CDA said in a press release. But the cost is worth it because most retailers, food service operators, and even some schools and farmers’ markets require some form of third-party verification of food safety practices, the department said.

The cost-share will help some farmers make first-time verification audits, and let others get a break on costs, so they can continue to participate.

“Producers should find value in these audits, as they may gain additional customers because of the certifications,” said Brian Pauley, section chief of the ag department's fruit and vegetable section in a press release. “With this cost-share incentive, we hope that additional producers will see this as an opportunity to provide their customers with verification of best practices to promote food safety.”

Audits must have been conducted on or after Oct. 1, 2018.

Farmers can find an application and more information on the department's website, or call or email (719) 852-4749 brian.pauley@state.co.us.

Image via Rick Uldricks, Patch.com