Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP)
Michigan
Land Use |
Cropland, grazing land |
Focus |
Technical assistance, cost-share, incentive program |
Resource Concern |
Soil erosion, water quality, air quality, wildlife habitat |
Purpose |
The environmental purpose is to assist landowners in the implementation of agricultural pollution prevention practices on farms. |
Landowner Benefits |
The landowner receives education, cost-share assistance, and technical assistance. There is also a certification possibility for each operation. |
Description |
This program 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 3 systems designed to help produces 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. |
Practices |
Nutrient Management Plan, Farm A Syst, pesticide application education, education on the Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices, |
Costs to Landowner |
Landowners will pay for the cost of some low-cost practices. Cost-share is available for other practices. |
Eligibility |
Landowners must be willing to participate in all 3 phases of the process. Phase 1: a 5-7 hour education session. Phase 2: on farm risk assessment. Phase 3: Third Party Verification. |
Contract |
This is a multi-year project for the landowner and producer to meet objectives, as well as best managing both time and resources. |
Other Notes |
In order to maintain verification and certification, a landowner must request an on-site farm inspection at least every three years after completion. |
Landowner Initiation |
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