April, 2000

MICHIGAN AGRICULTURAL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSURANCE PROGRAM

The Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP), introduced in the December 1999 Agricultural Engineering Newsletter, is being developed out of a desire by the agricultural industry to be proactive concerning environmental regulations. A diverse group of industry leaders, producers and governmental agencies came together to form the MAEAP steering committee and set forth the mission of the group. MAEAP’s mission is to develop and promote a recognized, voluntary, proactive environmental assurance program targeting the agricultural industry. It will ensure that producers are engaging in cost-effective pollution prevention practices and are in compliance with environmental regulations.

The MAEAP Steering Committee is currently drafting an outline for a Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP). The CNMP is an important management tool for livestock producers. Additionally, the EPA/USDA Animal Feeding Operations (AFO) strategy is requiring a CNMP. In Michigan as part of Bill PA 261, a local government agency can request a copy of the CNMP.

A properly written CNMP helps the producers manage the storage and application of animal waste in a way that reduces the risk of surface or ground water contamination. It also provides methods for utilizing animal waste so that it compliments the agronomic activities associated with the acreage that the nutrients are applied to. A good CNMP should address the following areas:

  1. Animal outputs
    • Production
    • Collection
    • Storage
    • Treatment
    • Transfer
    • Emergency Action Plan
  1. Evaluation and Treatment of Sites Proposed for Land Application
  2. Land Application
  3. Record of CNMP Implementation
  4. Inputs to Animals – Feed Management
  5. Other Utilization Activities Inspections and Maintenance
  6. Employee Training Plan

 

Ray Wagester

 

 

 

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