Michigan 's Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) is yet another way the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Michigan 's agriculture industry is proactively and comprehensively addressing environmental concerns. This program is the state's latest tool to assist in the implementation of agricultural pollution prevention practices on farms.

While farmers are traditionally recognized as active conservationists, Don Koivisto , Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture, said changes in agricultural practices and increased rural population density have contributed to the need for additional environmental stewardship tools like MAEAP.

MAEAP is a voluntary, pro-active program designed by state and federal agencies, farmers and industry partners to reduce producers' legal and environmental risks. It teaches effective land stewardship practices that comply with state and federal regulations and shows producers how to find and prevent agricultural pollution risks on their farms.

The program encompasses three systems designed to help producers evaluate the environmental risks of their operation. Each system -- Livestock, Farmstead and Cropping -- examines a different aspect of a farm, as each has a different environmental impact. Through each phase, producers will develop and implement economically feasible, effective and environmentally sound pollution prevention practices.

MAEAP is designed as a multi-year program allowing producers to meet personal objectives, while best managing both time and resources. By participating in all three systems, producers comprehensively evaluate their entire farming operation for potential environmental risks. 

The Livestock System, Farmstead System and Cropping System for traditional row crops, nursery and orchards are currently underway. The Livestock System's primary emphasis is completing and implementing Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMPs), including environmental risk assessments and action plans that are site and farm specific.  The Farmstead System uses the Farm*A*Syst risk assessment to evaluate farmstead risks to groundwater and to surface water.  The Cropping System uses the Crop*A*Syst specific to the crop to evaluate risk related to nutrient management, pesticide and fertilizer applications.  Irrigation management and water use are also included.  Local conservation district groundwater technicians help producers evaluate risk.

Cropping System risk management tools will be available for greenhouse operations and vegetable production sites by January 2007.

After approved CNMPs are developed and implemented for the Livestock System and after the Farm*A*Syst or specific Crop*A*Syst has been completed and immediate risks have been addressed (for the Farmstead and Cropping System), producers can request Third Party Verification from the Michigan Department of Agriculture.  When verification requirements are successfully met, producers receive recognition for their accomplishments and access to incentives.  With an on-going commitment to use environmentally sound management practices, and to maintain MAEAP Verification, producers must request a MDA visit every three years.  To request farm verification, contact:

Jan Wilford, MAEAP Program Manager
Michigan Department of Agriculture
Phone:  (517) 241-4730
Email:  WilfordJ9@michigan.gov
or visit
www.maeap.org