Livestock
The MAEAP Livestock System Primarily focuses on environmental issues related to livestock activities, including manure handling, storage and field application, as well as conservation practices to protect water and prevent soil erosion. The Livestock System targets all Michigan livestock farms, regardless of species or size. The Livestock System concentrates on production and conservation practices, equipment, structures and management activities associated with animal production.
For livestock producers, the ultimate accomplishment in MAEAP is Livestock System verification. Some producers may elect to immediately pursue the completion of a CNMP and verification. However, many livestock producers may find that using the Livestock*A*Syst will assist the producer in smaller, progressive steps of environmental improvement that are more economical and practical.
Verification
Once a plan to address the risks identified in the CNMP or the completed Livestock*A*Syst and immediate risks of groundwater and surface water contamination have been implemented, farmers can contact the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) to request Livestock System verification (517.373.9797 or ). An MDA MAEAP verifier will visit the farm to verify that the Livestock*A*Syst or CNMP has been implemented and to ensure that the farmer is addressing all applicable environmental risks.
On-farm records are an important component for a producer to show they are following the CNMP/Livestock*A*Syst. During the visit, MDA staff verify the implementation of the plan to ensure that the livestock producer is in compliance with agricultural and environmental laws and regulations.
Once a farm is "verified," a farmer can purchase a MAEAP farm or office sign and the farm is eligible for MAEAP sign rebates, cost-share incentives, tax credits, low-cost lending and reduced liability insurance premiums from participating companies.
In order to maintain MAEAP verification a farmer must attend a MAEAP educational session and request a site visit from MDA at least every three years.
The following resources can help the livestock producer prepare for the MDA verifier visit:
