The federal government has allocated nearly $100,000 to help Hawaii farmers and produce handlers become certified to grow and handle organic food.

The state Department of Agriculture says most of the money will go toward reimbursing organic farmers and livestock operators for inspections and certification.

The rest will pay for a separate program that helps companies become certified as organic processors and handlers.

Department Director Russell Kokubun said in a statement Friday the programs provide a good incentive for organic farmers to become certified.

He says the need for certified processors and handlers is also increasing as the organic industry grows.

The state agriculture department has been participating in the National Organic Certification Cost-Share Program since 2004 to encourage the growth of organic farming in Hawaii.