Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program
The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) was designed by a coalition of agricultural, conservation and environmental representatives to assist producers in developing farm-specific pollution prevention practices.
MAEAP uses a comprehensive, education-based approach to help you:
- Develop and adopt site-specific pollution prevention practices on your farm.
- Use consistent record keeping systems.
- Conserve our state’s valuable natural resources like soil and water.
Why should you participate?
Producers across the nation are facing tough environmental risks. By participating in this program, you will have the opportunity to work directly with qualified professionals to identify high-risk areas on your farm and to develop a plan to address the issues. Program partners will help you make certain your farm is “environmentally assured”, and that you are using management practices to protect your farm and natural resources well into the future.
Phase I—Education
Producers will learn the following:
-What MAEAP is and why your involvement is important.
-Current state and federal environmental rules and regulations, and the impact of ag pollution on the environment.
-Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMP) and how to develop one for your farm.
-Resource and technical assistance options to implement your management plan.
Following completion of Phase I, the producer can start developing his farm-specific plan.
Phase II — On-Farm Assessment
The development and implementation of a farm-specific CNMP is a key element of MAEAP. A CNMP is used to minimize impacts to the environment while maintaining the economic viability of your farm. You will develop a timeline meeting your farms needs to implement any changes. Public and private technical assistance is available to assist you in this process. Phase II is complete when:
-The CNMP is approved.
-A schedule for plan implementation is followed.
Phase III — Third Party Verification
When Phase II is complete, you request a farm visit from the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA). MDA will verify that your management plan has been implemented according to your schedule. When these requirements have been successfully met, you will receive MAEAP verification.
Contact Us
Cass County Conservation District
1127 E State St, Cassopolis, MI 49031
Tel: (269) 445-8641 or (269) 445-8643 ext 3
Fax: (269) 445-0619
