1. (1) The department will conduct monitoring reviews of the operations of randomly selected authorized farmers at the designated summer farmers' market locations. The annual monitoring review is conducted to determine:

   1. (a) whether the farmer demonstrates ability to meet Montana SFMNP requirements, as evidenced by the on-site observations, interviews, and third party information during the current agreement; and
   2. (b) whether patterns of participant use demonstrate compliance with the SFMNP.

2. (2) The on-site monitoring and reviews will include no less than one-tenth of the total currently authorized farmers to include farmers that are considered high-risk in accordance with 7 CFR 249.10. High risk is defined as:

   1. (a) newly authorized farmers;
   2. (b) farmers about whom the department has received participant or local agency complaints; and
   3. (c) farmers who receive a proportionately high volume of coupons as compared to other farmers at the same summer market location.

3. (3) On-site or follow-up contact by means other than (2)(a) through (c) may

   occur when warranted by incomplete information or complaint.

4. (4) The department may conduct unannounced on-site monitoring visits.

Authorizing statute(s): 52-1-103, 52-3-504, MCA

Implementing statute(s): 52-3-102, 52-3-505, MCA

History: NEW, 2017 MAR p. 606, Eff. 5/13/17.