ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP DIVISION - michigan.gov · TABLE OF CONTENTS. 03. Letter from the...

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MDARD Annual Report | 2016-2017

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PROGRAM MANAGER:

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP DIVISION

Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development 525 West Allegan, Lansing, MI 48933

P.O. Box 30017, Lansing, MI 48909Telephone: (800) 292-3939

Fax: (517) 373-6015


Jim JohnsonDivision Director

TABLE OF CONTENTS

03 Letter from the Director

04 Aquifer Dispute Resolution

06 Biosolids

08 Business Unit

10 Conservation District Operations

12 Conservation Technical Assistance Initiative

14 Farmland Conservation Easements

16 Farmland Preservation

18 Forestry Assistance

20 Intercounty Drains

22 MAEAP Overview

24 MAEAP Clean Sweep

26 MAEAP Pesticide Container Recycling

28 MAEAP Spill Response

30 MAEAP Water Monitoring

32 MAEAP Water Use Reporting

34 Migrant Labor Housing

36 Pheasant Restoration Initiative

38 Qualified Forest

40 Right to Farm Complaint Resolution

42 Right to Farm GAAMPS

44 Right to Farm Livestock Facility Siting

Presenter

Presentation Notes

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LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR

Michigan is blessed with diverse agricultural production. Our seasonal climate, bountiful water resources, highly productive soils and the tremendous skills of our farmers and food processors lend itself to produce more than 300 different commodities. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Environmental Stewardship Division (ESD) is hard at work carrying out our mission to assist resource managers in implementing sound environmental stewardship practices that provide for a safe and healthy environment, a viable natural resource base and a strong agricultural economy. That is why it is my great pleasure to provide the 2017 Annual Report on ESD’s program activities.

ESD is responsible for programs related to the resource management of Michigan’s working lands. The following report summarizes the considerable efforts of ESD’s more than 60 employees for the year. The division plays a multi-faceted role in Michigan’s agriculture industry, including but not limited to the safe movement of storm water in rural and urban settings; better management of privately held forest lands; the protection of Michigan’s tremendous farmland; working to ensure farmers are addressing our natural resources and minimizing nuisance conditions; and ensuring good housing for migrant workers.

I am very proud to be associated with ESD’s hard-working staff and all they do to protect consumers, the environment, and the long-term viability of Michigan agriculture.

Jim JohnsonDivision Director

Environmental Stewardship Division




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The Aquifer Dispute Resolution Program allows small quantity well owners to file complaints with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) or the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) if their wells fail to furnish their normal water supply or provide potable water. Complaints related to agriculture are investigated by MDARD. The investigation is intended to determine if there is a scientifically-based cause-and-effect between the pumping of the high capacity well and the failure or impairment of the small quantity well. If the high capacity well is found to be the cause, the state of Michigan will propose a remedy to equitably resolve the dispute.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN:The Aquifer Dispute Resolution Programestablishes a process for small quantity well owners to file a complaint with the state of Michigan to investigate when they feel their water supply has been compromised by drawdown from a high capacity well. Without the program, the only recourse is through the courts, under Common Law/Riparian Doctrine. The burden of proof in these legal cases can be expensive and lengthy.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:• Three formal complaints were filed in 2017. • Two cases were resolved.

• One complaint was invalid.

Aquifer Dispute ResolutionAbigail Eaton | 517-284-5612 | [email protected]

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MEASURING SUCCESS:

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MDARD Annual Report | 2016-2017MDARD Annual Report | 2016-2017

PROGRAM GOALS:• Improve the Aquifer Dispute Resolution Program tracking database.• Train more staff as back-up to respond to Aquifer Dispute Resolution Program related complaints.• Continue to work with MDEQ to develop better methods of obtaining information on potential

drawdown impacts of large quantity withdrawals, requiring Geographic Information System, in a more timely manner.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Small capacity drinking water well owners• Large capacity irrigation well operators• Private well drillers and pump installers• Michigan Department of Environmental Quality

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources Environmental Protection Act, Public

Act 451 of 1994, Part 317 (Aquifer Protection and Dispute Resolution), as amended

Metric 2014 2015 2016 2017Complaints Filed 0 0 8 3

Informally Facilitated Remedies 0 1 1 0

Resolved/Closed Conflicts 0 1 3 1

Open Complaints 0 0 4 1

Unresolved/Disputed Complaints 0 0 0 0

Number of Invalid Complaints 0 0 1 1

Cost to Producers for Resolution $0 $1,700 $12,441 $8,000

Wells Replaced or Improved 0 1 4 2




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Biosolids are nutrient-rich organic materials resulting from the controlled treatment of sewage sludge. Due to this treatment, biosolids can be safely recycled and applied to farm fields for crop production as fertilizers for their nutrient value. While regulated by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development provides education and technical assistance to farmers, locally elected officials, and other stakeholders on the use of biosolids as fertilizer for crop production.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: The land application of biosolids at agronomic rates saves Michigan farmers more than $10 million each year in fertilizer costs and reduces municipal sewage treatment waste disposal costs by $7.9 million each year.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Farmers applied 120,000 dry tons of biosolids with a fertilizer value of $15 million during

2017.• This was a record year with the addition of 50,000 tons of stabilized biosolids treated by

Great Lakes Water Authority rather than being incinerated.

BiosolidsSteve Mahoney | 517-284-5620 | [email protected]

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PROGRAM GOALS:• Display banners to use at conferences and education/outreach meetings.• Provide training to Conservation District Technicians on the beneficial use of biosolids so they can

provide education and targeted technical assistance to farmers and local officials in their districts.• Work with Michigan State University Extension and Michigan Water Environment Association to

promote the beneficial use of biosolids.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• Michigan livestock producers • Rural non-farm neighbors• Local governments• Commodity organizations

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, PA 451 of 1994, Part

24 Rules and Part 31, as amended

Metric 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Biosolids Applied (Tons) 88,000 82,000 76,000 105,000 120,000

Biosolids Application Area (Acres) 19,000 18,000 16,500 26,600 29,550

Nitrogen Used as Fertilizer (Tons) 3,750 3,500 3,250 4,500 4,800

Phosphorus Used as Fertilizer (Tons) 1,950 1,800 1,650 2,300 3,000

Potassium Used as Fertilizer (Tons) 320 300 275 380 500

Farm Value as Fertilizer $11M $10M $10M $14M $15M

Participants Attending Biosolids Conference 103 88 80 60 N/A




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The Business Unit was formed in Fiscal Year 2014 to provide centralized office services within the Environmental Stewardship Division (ESD). Business Unit services include budget development and monitoring, grant management, payment processing, procurement, performance measurement scorecards, equipment and technology support, timekeeping, office supplies, travel, coordination of Freedom of Information Act requests, and record retention. The centralized services allow program staff to focus on program implementation and process improvement.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: Prior to the creation of the Business Unit, operational tasks were distributed between three staff and four managers, all using different procedures and processes with operational redundancy. The Business Unit has standardized ESD procedures, thereby increasing quantity, quality, and timeliness within the division. The Business Unit also provides for continuity of operations through cross-training of staff on essential functions.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Played a key role for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) in

testing the functionality of the Statewide Integrated Governmental Management Applications (SIGMA) software before it was released in production. Successfully completed an accelerated closing schedule for the fiscal year while converting business functions from the Michigan Administrative Information Network accounting software system to the new SIGMA Enterprise Resource Planning software.

• Aided in the transformation of ESD into a mobile workforce through laptops and Surface Pro Tablets.

• Facilitated the merging of the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program database into the MI-Login portal as well as various user enhancements and improved reports.

Business UnitMichael Hetherington | 517-284-5603 | [email protected]

Business Unit

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PROGRAM GOALS:• Continue information management upgrades.• Develop efficiency gains with the new SIGMA Enterprise software.• Train grantees to use SIGMA for payment requests and reporting. • Increase cross-training for bench strength.• Continue professional growth for staff.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• ESD program managers and staff• MDARD Budget Office• Accounting Services Division• Conservation districts• Other state agencies• Federal government

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Omnibus Budget Appropriations Bill, Public Act 252 of 1994, as amended

Metric 2016 2017

Grants

Specific Types 19 17

Originated and Processed 145 154

Payments Processed 580 616

Spending Plan

Appropriation Line Items 8 7

Funds Managed - Federal 4 4

Funds Managed – State Restricted 5 5

Indexes Tracked 76 74

Staff Supported 55 56

Portion of Budget Charged to General Fund 41.67% 34.59%

Office Management

Computers Refreshed 21 24

Smart Phone Updates 0 15




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Michigan conservation districts are a governmental subdivision of the state utilizing state, federal, and private sector resources to solve today's agricultural and natural resource problems. Conservation districts are the primary mechanism by which the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) delivers “regulatory certainty,” conservation, wildlife habitat, and forestry programs to private landowners.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: Michigan’s agriculture and forest products industry is a $119 billion sector of the state’s economy. Conservation programming is most effective when delivered at the local level, by local people, with local technical assistance. Conservation districts deliver $6.2 million in MDARD programs, such as the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP), the Forestry Assistance Program, and the Habitat Incentive Program.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Reached 65 conservation district managers and 73 board directors with core training materials.• Increased overall conservation district engagement. • Participated in 117 conservation district goal-setting meetings for MAEAP, the Forestry Assistance

Program, and the Pheasant Restoration Initiative.• Coordinated mergers of four conservation districts resulting in the formation of two new conservation

districts.

Conservation District OperationsJohn Switzer | 517-284-5606 | [email protected]

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PROGRAM GOALS:• Reinvigorate communication and transparency with conservation districts and partners.• Increase core training opportunities for conservation district boards and staff.• Continue to utilize goal-setting teams to increase voluntary conservation program implementation

delivered through conservation districts.• Enhance conservation district evaluation criteria used to focus capacity building efforts. • Pursue a formalized conservation partnership with key partners.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Conservation district staff and boards• Michigan landowners • Federal and state partnering agencies • Users of Michigan’s natural resources

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, Public Act 451

of 1994, Part 93 (Soil Conservation Districts), as amended

Metric 2014 2015 2016 2017

Number of Conservation Districts 78 78 77 75

Number of District Managers 74 73 73 69

Total District Staff 231 239 244 199

Number of Districts Receiving Grants 55 57 61 62

Total Number of Grants to Districts 112 111 124 135

Value of Environmental Stewardship Division Grants $5.4M $5.8M $5.9M $6.2M

Board Meeting Participation 156 163 172 127

Quarterly Financial Evaluations 224 228 323 692*

Search and Selection Processes 35 32 44 35

District Capacity Building Occasions 138 135

District Employee Development Assistance 67 51

*Includes financial evaluations from the last quarter in the fiscal year typically counted in the following fiscal year.




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The Conservation Technical Assistance Initiative (CTAI) program provides technical assistance to landowners interested in implementing conservation practices on their land. The CTAI program is a partnership between federal, state, and local units of government, working together to assist farmers and rural landowners. The CTAI program assists conservation districts in their efforts to help Michigan citizens better understand, plan, manage, protect, and utilize their natural resources.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: The engineering and construction oversight provided by the CTAI program opened a bottleneck in our conservation implementation system, bringing $5.2 million in federal revenue into Michigan that otherwise would have been allocated to other states. The CTAI program supports farmers’ efforts to implement the conservation practices needed for verification under the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program. The implementation of these practices spurs the local economy through the purchase of materials and the use of local contractors.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • The CTAI program employees provided assistance on 55 different types of conservation

practices.

• 625 conservation practices were implemented across 51 Michigan counties.

• This work translates to more than $5.2 million being made available to Michigan landowners by the CTAI program.

Conservation Technical Assistance InitiativeLaura Doud | 517-898-4041 | [email protected]

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PROGRAM GOALS:• Continue to work with partners to determine the best placement and types of technical assistance

needed across the state.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• Farmers• Agriculture industry groups • Michigan Farm Bureau • Commodity groups• Conservation and environmental groups

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, Public Act 451 of

1994, Part 82 (Conservation Practices) and Part 87 (Groundwater and Freshwater Protection), as amended

Metric 2014 2015 2016 2017

Counties Served 30 40 44 51

Engineering Staff (FTEs) 5 5 5 5

Soil Conservationists (FTEs) 7 9 9 9

Conservation Practices Implemented 346 528 644 625

Federal Cost Share $5.0 M $6.5 M $6.5 M $5.3 M




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While the tax credits provided under the Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program (PA 116) provide temporary protection from farmland being developed into non-agricultural uses, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development also enters into and monitors permanent conservation easements on agricultural land. A conservation easement is a voluntary agreement between a landowner and the state of Michigan, which keeps land available for agricultural or open space uses.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN:The availability of permanent conservation easements on agricultural land and open space provides a focal point for local land use planning, zoning, and associated farmland preservation efforts. The nearly 25,000 acres of land in conservation easements generates an estimated $22 million in agricultural products each year.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:• The Farmland Conservation Easement Program entered into three new agreements, covering 329

acres in 2017.• Staff completed on-site monitoring of 122 easements for prohibited land-use changes.

Farmland Conservation EasementsBeth Juras | 517-243-7949 | [email protected]

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PROGRAM GOALS:• Work with the agriculture community, open space conservancies, and the legislature to receive

appropriation approval for an application cycle for the Michigan Agricultural Preservation Fund in Fiscal Year 2018.

• Work on ways to collaborate with the Federal Agricultural Conservation Easement Program.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Michigan farmers• Agribusiness• Consumers of Michigan grown food• Those who enjoy the open space and farmland

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental Protection

Act, Public Act 451 of 1994, as amended, MCL 324.36101 et seq.

• Conservation and Historic Preservation Easement Act, Sub Part 11 of Part 21 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 Public Act 451, as amended, MCL 324.2140 et seq.

• Public Act 451 of 1994, as amended, MCL 324.36201 et seq.

Metric 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

New Conservation Easements

Conservation Easements Recorded 3 6 5 2 3

Acreage Enrolled 1,012 718 656 87 329Program Total Conservation Easements

Conservation Easements Recorded 118 124 129 131 134Local Conservation Easements 11 11 11 11 11Acreage Enrolled 23,090 24,102 24,758 24,815 25,091

Easement Monitoring Donated Development Rights 39 45 50 51 54State Purchase of Development Rights 50 50 50 50 50USDA Farm and Ranch Land 21 21 21 21 21

Total 110 116 121 122 125




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The Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program (PA 116) preserves farmland from being developed for non-agricultural uses. Participating landowners are exempt from some special property tax assessments and may also receive a Michigan income tax credit for property tax in excess of 3.5 percent of household income.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN:Public Act 116 was established in 1975 in response to the loss of farmland associated with high property taxes. Michigan is one of the few states in the nation with market-based property tax assessments. Agricultural lands near developing urban areas were being taxed based on what their land would sell for if converted into housing developments or strip malls. As a result, Michigan was losing cropland at an average rate of six percent per year. Michigan’s food and agriculture sector contributes $102 billion to the state’s economy.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • The program transitioned to a new database, allowing staff to track work requests from start to finish, and

respond to landowner and stakeholder requests for information in real time. • The program has converted to a paperless system. Legal documents processed for recording will continue

to be printed. • Staffing levels were increased because of additional funding provided by legislation. Limited term staff

were hired to work through the program backlog, which resulted from reduced operation funding during Fiscal Years 2014-2016.

• Improvements have increased efficiencies, resulting in more work being processed. In 2016, approximately 2,700 legal documents were processed through completion. In 2017, more than 7,600 documents were processed though completion.

Rich Harlow | 517-284-5627 | [email protected]

Farmland Preservation

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PROGRAM GOALS:• Process remaining backlog of requests such that staff is working on current requests. • Review all requests within 30 days of receipt and notify landowners if additional information is needed

to complete the processing. • Process all requests within 60 days of receiving the request in the office. • Continue providing good customer service to landowners and stakeholders. • Work with the Michigan Department of Transportation, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and

Center for Geographic Information to map parcels in the PA 116 Program in a Geographic Information System.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Michigan farmers• Supporting agribusiness• Consumers of Michigan grown food• Rural and urban residents who enjoy the open

space provided by active farmland

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental

Protection Act, Public Act 451 of 1994, Part 361 (Farmland and Open Space Preservation), as amended

Metric 2013 2014* 2015* 2016* 2017

Applications Submitted 502 604 529 652 569

New Acreage Enrolled 32,437 40,101 34,910 52,160 45,520

Transfer Requests Processed 1,817 738 687 738 1,674

Extension Requests Processed 3,494 1,170 1,639 1,457 2,294

Expiration Requests Processed 204 17 909 199 712

Total New or Modified Agreements Recorded 5,420 2,009 3,082 2,725 7,644

Tax Credits Issued in Previous Year $44M $39M $44M $53M $51M

*Dramatic reduction in productivity in 2014-2016 due to staff reductions and time spent on agreement status calls.




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The Forestry Assistance Program is designed to help private forestland owners manage their forests in an economically beneficial and environmentally sound manner. Conservation district foresters help landowners increase their understanding of the value of actively managed forest resources and refer landowners to private sector professionals for management plan development, forest management, timber valuation, and harvests.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: Nearly 50 percent of Michigan’s 19 million acres of forestland is owned by non-industrial private forestland owners. Family forest owners contribute 64 percent of Michigan’s timber supply. The forest products industry contributes approximately $20 billion to the state’s economy annually with the potential to contribute much more. Only one-third of the growth of timber on private forestlands is currently being harvested.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Conducted more than 2,000 landowner site visits.• Referred an estimated $10.1 million in forest management projects for private

landowners.• Completed a total of 104 risk assessments for the Michigan Agriculture Environmental

Assurance Program’s (MAEAP) Forest, Wetlands, and Habitat system and 109 American Tree Farm inspections.

Forestry AssistanceJohn Switzer | 517-284-5606 | [email protected]

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PROGRAM GOALS:• Increase awareness and enrollment in Michigan’s Qualified Forest Program.• Conduct 2,100 on-site visits to forest properties.• Verify 175 properties in MAEAP Forest, Wetlands, and Habitat system.• Conduct 1,500 referrals to the public and private sectors.• Host 220 workshops and field days.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Non-industrial private forestland owners• Private sector professional foresters• Michigan’s forest products industry• Local units of government• Forestry, wildlife, and conservation advocacy groups

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Public Act 59 of 2013, as amended

Metric 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Foresters Available 13 17 20 20 20

Counties Served 31 42 49 49 50

Outreach Events 195 299 346 337 407

Site Visits 1,243 1,781 2,012 2202 2037

Private Sector Referrals 424 790 837 735 864

Public Sector Referrals 433 550 627 649 663

Timber Harvest Referrals 193 352 360 295 335

Estimated Value of Referrals ($M) 4.5 6.1 8.4 9.8 10.1

Acres Referred to Qualified Forest 11,983 53,108 77,049 69,535 77,224




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There are more than 1,000 intercounty drainage systems in Michigan with an estimated length of more than 6,000 miles, serving approximately six million acres. Each of these drainage systems is governed by a drainage board that administers the proceedings to establish, improve and maintain storm drains and sanitary sewers serving two or more counties. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) serves as chair for each of these boards.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: County and intercounty drains are the prerequisite infrastructure for Michigan’s economic development. They have played a key role in the development of agriculture, roads and highways, residential and commercial properties by removing excess soil moisture, reducing flood impacts and improving public health. Michigan has more than 35,000 miles of legally established “public” drains serving more than 17 million acres of agricultural and urban lands and roadways.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Completed work with the Michigan Association of County Drain Commissioners

(MACDC) to develop the first comprehensive Intercounty Drain Procedures Manual for the administration of intercounty drains by MDARD. The manual was presented at the annual meeting of the MACDC.

• Completed the $174 million rehabilitation project of the 22-mile-long Oakland-Macomb sanitary sewer interceptor that serves a population of 830,000.

• Conducted a record 439 public meetings, including 10 public hearings on petitioned projects.

• Received a one-time general fund appropriation of $250,000 to digitize all paper files and maps.

• Received authorization and funding to increase the professional staff by 2.0 full-time employees for program administration.

Intercounty DrainsMike Gregg | 517-284-5622 | [email protected]

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PROGRAM GOALS:• Improve the project tracking database, document management, and mapping capacity to more

efficiently conduct and report program output.• Collaborate with MACDC and the Michigan Department of Treasury on updating the Drain Code’s

financial disbursement procedures.• Digitize program historic files and maps and initiate the development of a spatial database and

geographic information system. • Mentor and integrate new program staff to reduce response time and add capacity.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• County drain/water resource/public works commissioners• Agricultural, residential and commercial property owners• Cities, villages and townships• County road commissions• Michigan Department of Transportation• Michigan Department of Environmental Quality

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• The Drain Code of 1956, Public Act 40 of 1956, as amended, MCL

280.1 et seq.

Metric 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017Miles of New or Improved Drains

138 112 122 120 118

Miles of Drains Maintained 134 142 131 233 241

Acres Affected 625,000 736,000 785,000 876,000 857,000

Public Meetings Chaired 206 225 288 345 439

Project Costs $73M $85M $92M $102M $94MCounties Served 34 31 33 36 41




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The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) is dedicated to helping Michigan’s farmers protect the environment in a manner that is performance based and cost effective. MAEAP brings together training, risk assessment, technical assistance, conservation practice support, engineering, cost-share, and agency verification in an industry lead partnership dedicated to pollution prevention. It is a legislated certainty program with incentives for farmers to become verified under the program.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: Michigan is surrounded by three-quarters of the world’s available fresh water. It is imperative for current and future generations that the most effective water protection strategies are implemented. Michigan’s agriculture industry has taken a lead nationally by participating in and supporting MAEAP, which is funded primarily by fees on pesticides and agricultural fertilizers.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Developed and began implementation of a new reporting database that will allow

better tracking of Best Management Practices implementation, allowing MAEAP to more effectively quantify Michigan agriculture’s environmental efforts.

• Set a record high for new verifications with 642 completed during the year, continuing an upward trend every year since program codification.

• Reached 4,328 verifications statewide, a 17 percent increase over Fiscal Year 2016.

MAEAP OverviewJoe Kelpinski | 517-284-5608 | [email protected]

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PROGRAM GOALS:• Continue development and implementation of current database to quantify practice implementation.• Develop and utilize a geographic information system based mapping method to prioritize efforts within

watersheds.• Implement Edge of Field research project for Western Lake Erie Basin area.• Complete 650 new verifications.• Complete 500 re-verifications.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• Farmers and agribusiness• Michigan Farm Bureau• Commodity groups• Conservation districts• Michigan residents


1994, Part 82 (Conservation Practices) and Part 87 (Groundwater and Freshwater Protection), as amended

• Public Acts 1 and 2 of 2011, as amended

Metric 2016 2017

Verifications 637 642

Completed Risk Assessments 1,538 1,623

Sediment Stabilized (tons) 381,041 163,526

Phosphorus Contained 651,525 283,487




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The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) Clean Sweep Program helps protect the state's natural resources by facilitating the proper disposal of outdated, unused, or unwanted pesticides. Permanent pesticide drop-off sites operated by local staff and frequently coordinated with local hazardous waste programs have been a key to program success. The state’s conservation districts provide technical assistance by arranging special collection events in areas not typically served, expanding the reach of some permanent sites. Pesticide disposal costs are covered by MAEAP.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: The MAEAP Clean Sweep Program makes it much easier for farmers and other homeowners to dispose of pesticides from old barns, basements, homes, and sheds. Investigations of environmental contamination from chemicals can cost tens of millions of dollars, last for many years, and require remediation that may cost more than the investigation. MAEAP Clean Sweep helps ensure that the state and its citizens avoid additional costs of accidents, fires, floods and other disasters that can scar our land and water for generations by paying for disposal.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • MAEAP Clean Sweep program collection levels saw an eight percent increase over Fiscal

Year 2016. This is due, in part, to the bankruptcy of one large producer that left 29,000 pounds of orphaned product requiring proper disposal.

• Upgrades and improvements for tracking were implemented in Fiscal Year 2017.

MAEAP Clean SweepAbigail Eaton | 517-284-5612 | [email protected]

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PROGRAM GOALS:• 15 satellite collection events coordinated with permanent collection sites in participating counties.• 140,000 pounds of pesticides collected and properly disposed.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Agriculture industry groups • Michigan agribusiness• Greenhouse industry• Residential pesticide users• Local hazardous waste program

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act,

Public Act 451 of 1994, Part 82 (Conservation Practices) and Part 87 (Groundwater and Freshwater Protection), as amended

• Public Acts 1 and 2 of 2011, as amended

Metric 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Clean Sweep Permanent Sites 16 18 18 18 18 18 18

Pesticides Collected (Pounds) 120,014 136,277 127,481 176,970 173,483 179,470 194,039

Disposal Program Costs Covered ($) 220,380 199,684 196,956 240,859 207,520 230,610 200,000




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The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Michigan Agri-Business Association, the Ag Container Recycling Council, and G. Phillips and Sons LLC form a partnership designed to promote the proper cleaning and recycling of pesticide containers. Information on proper container rinsing techniques and recycling locations is distributed by the partnership to pesticide users. A network of agri-businesses and conservation districts are available for the collection and recycling of properly cleaned plastic containers into appropriate post-consumer products. Containers up to 56 gallons in size are accepted.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program’s Pesticide Container Recycling Program decreases the likeliness that unclean or improperly stored containers will leach pesticide residue into the environment, and reduces environmental and human health risks by promoting safe container rinsing practices. Plastics can be recycled or converted to other beneficial uses rather than taking up valuable landfill space.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

• The Ag Container Recycling Council (ACRC) hired a new vendor to manage recycling of containers. The ACRC goes through a competitive request for bid process every three years.

• A total of 175,316 pounds of empty, properly cleaned pesticide containers collected and recycled in 2017. The new vendor exceeded 2016 collections by 41 percent.

MAEAP Pesticide Container RecyclingAbigail Eaton | 517-284-5612 | [email protected]

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PROGRAM GOALS:• MDARD is looking forward to increasing outreach to more agribusinesses with G. Phillips & Sons LLC

to improve program services.• G. Phillips & Sons LLC continues to look at new models of facilitating participation of recycling empty,

clean pesticide containers in Michigan for 2018.• MDARD, along with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and Conservation Districts,

will explore options for the development of a program for collection and recycling of other agricultural plastics. These include silage wrap, mulches, and greenhouse covers.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Agriculture industry groups • Michigan agribusiness• Greenhouse industry• Conservation districts• Ag Container Recycling Council

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, Public

Act 451 of 1994, Part 87 (Groundwater and Freshwater Protection), as amended

Metric 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Pesticide Containers Recycled (Pounds) 84,809 47,989 115,326 66,281 103,989 175,316

Agribusinesses Collecting Containers 33 30 40 23 29 43




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MAEAP SPILL RESPONSE

The Spill Response Program provides technical assistance for agri-chemical and manure spills, including the approval of land application of spilled materials at agronomic rates. Individuals with a pesticide, fertilizer, or manure spill can call the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Spill Response line at 800-405-0101. This voluntary program allows agricultural producers to minimize or eliminate environmental contamination resulting from a spill incident.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: Michigan’s farmers seek to raise food, feed, and fiber in a cost-effective and environmentally sensitive manner. The Spill Response Program provides support to address both aspects when accidents occur. While rare, accidents involving pesticides and/or fertilizers can present significant environmental risk.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Responded to and properly mitigated the impacts of 11 agri-chemical spills.• Nearly 14,000 pounds of spilled products were safely applied to land at appropriate

agronomic rates.

Jack Knorek 517-243-0072 | [email protected]

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MEASURING SUCCESS:



PROGRAM GOALS:• MDARD will assist in reducing the amount of spills and will document the results in the ESD’s scorecard

(ESD-15). • ESD will improve after action documentation of spill responses in fiscal year 2018. The MDARD Spill

Incident Reporting form will provide a standardized template for review. Response to each spill will be evaluated during bi-weekly staff meetings. Official documentation and summary statistics will be maintained in MDARD’s data warehouse.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• Agricultural suppliers and producers• Environmental advocates and regulators• Michigan consumers


1994, Parts 83 (Pesticide Control) and 85 (Fertilizers)

Metric 2016 2017Spill Incidents Reported 8 11

Agronomic application of spilled materials (pounds) 480 13,953

Landfill/Incinerate disposal of spilled materials (pounds) 2,185 0




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PROGRAM MANAGER:


The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program’s Water Monitoring Program is the only program in Michigan routinely testing water quality in privately-owned (non-community) water wells. Samples are analyzed for pesticides, volatile organic compounds, and nitrate contamination. Well owners with results indicating a water quality problem are provided with information on risks and steps to take to verify water quality safety. If a groundwater contamination problem is identified, the program works with local landowners to determine the extent and severity of the problem. In some cases, financial assistance can be provided for alternate water supplies.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: Pesticide contamination of groundwater has been detected at 103 of 4,683 sites sampled by the program in Michigan, or 2.2 percent of the sites sampled. Elevated nitrate levels have been identified at 17 percent of private sites tested for nitrate, and half of these contain nitrates above public drinking water standards. Contaminant concentrations in groundwater indicate the need for improving pesticide and fertilizer management by both homeowners and agriculture.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:• Continued work on a privately funded multi-year research study evaluating the impact of

the newly-registered pesticide, isoxaflutole.• Worked with laboratories in other states to analyze pesticides that Michigan’s state and

private labs cannot.• Updated and migrated the water monitoring database to a fully relational Access system.

MAEAP Water MonitoringRobert Pigg | 517-284-5611 | [email protected]

METRICS GO HERE


MEASURING SUCCESS:



Metric 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017MDEQ or MDARD Analytical Lab Analysis

Wells Sampled 72 99 125 83 118Pesticide Detections 1 2 1 1 3Pesticide > Drinking Water Standards 0 0 0 0 0Nitrate Elevated between 5 and 10 ppm 13 5 8 5 7Nitrate over Drinking Water Standard of 10 ppm 4 9 8 5 8

Screening with Test StripsWater Screenings 670 575 707 932 567Nitrate Elevated between 5 and 10 ppm 51 44 53 44 33Nitrate over Drinking Water Standard of 10 ppm 54 58 46 67 47

Households Notified of Drinking Water Risks 115 121 122 122 98

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Domestic well owners and users• Pesticide and nitrogen fertilizer users• Pesticide registrants• Local health departments• State and federal partner agencies

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental Protection

Act, Public Act 451 of 1994, Part 87 (Groundwater and Freshwater Protection), as amended

PROGRAM GOALS:• Conduct at least one online and one in-person training in well monitoring procedures.• Participate actively in the newly-organized multi-agency Michigan Water Quality Monitoring Workgroup.




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PROGRAM MANAGER:


The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program’s Water Use Reporting Program requires all water users having a capacity to withdraw water quantities of 100,000 gallons per day or greater to report their use on an annual basis. Agricultural users report to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) at no cost. All other industries report to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) for a fee. Water users are required to submit their annual reports to the State of Michigan by April 1 of the following year.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN:

On December 13, 2005, the Great Lakes Governors and Premiers signed the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact (Annex 2001), implementing agreements to provide unprecedented protections for the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin. Annex 2001 stipulates that within five years of the effective date, each state will create a program for the management and regulation of new or increased large withdrawals to ensure an effective and efficient water management program. The Water Use Reporting Program is Michigan’s solution to meeting Annex 2001.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Managed reporting for approximately 1,889 user accounts, representing 3,795 farms

reporting water use for more than 10,400 large capacity pumps.• Worked with the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget to

complete an MDARD interface to water withdrawal data submitted by landowners that allows better customer service and improved data reliability.

• Reduced redundancy of records for streamlined tracking.

MAEAP Water Use ReportingAbigail Eaton | 517-284-5612 | [email protected]

METRICS GO HERE


MEASURING SUCCESS:



PROGRAM GOALS:• Improve MAEAP Water Use Reporting Program’s online reporting database to increase efficiency in

tracking transfers of ownership and/or leasing of large quantity withdrawals, reduce duplication potential of records, and strengthen the capability of reporting results at the state level.

• Ongoing work with MDEQ to identify producers with new and old large quantity water withdrawals who are not yet submitting required water use reports to the state of Michigan, and assist with bringing them into compliance.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Agricultural large quantity water use operations• State governors and premiers of Canadian provinces in

the Great Lakes Basin• Great Lakes Commission• Agriculture industry groups• International Joint Commission• Conservation districts

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, Public Act

451 of 1994, Part 327 (Great Lakes Preservation), as amended

Metric 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016Users Submitting Water Use On-line 1,478 1,416 1,452 1,457 1,463

Pumps Reported 7,469 7,579 7,996 8,207 8371

Withdrawal from Groundwater (%) 74 76 77 76 77

Withdrawal from Surface Water (%) 26 24 23 24 23

Irrigated Acres Reported 592,243 533,160 553,889 566,112 595,576

Water Withdrawal (Billion Gallons) 175 109 98 105 127

Water Withdrawal (Acre Feet) 457,300 333,183 302,120 322,651 385,460




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PROGRAM MANAGER:


The Migrant Labor Housing (MLH) program is designed to ensure the safety of housing occupied by five or more migrant agricultural workers. Licensure indicates safe water supplies, proper sanitation facilities, proper food preparation and storage facilities, fire and structural safety, and proper waste disposal.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: Migrant workers play an important role in the planting, cultivating, harvesting, and packaging of 38 labor-intensive crops grown in Michigan. These crops generate $2.3 billion in farm gate revenues each year. Quality housing is needed to retain Michigan’s reputation as a good place to work and attract this much needed seasonal workforce.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • The MLH program published the number of corrective actions identified for resolution

in the departmental scorecard. Camp operators appear to be responding to Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s increase in occupancy inspections. The number of unresolved and critical issues identified have decreased by 15 percent a year for the past two years.

• The MLH program has designed--and continues to improve on--a scanning database functionality that links to the State of Michigan’s Record Manager. The utilization of this scanning functionality has completely eliminated the use of paper records and mailing, which has saved resources, improved efficiency, and expedited license issuance.

• Continued collaboration with the Workforce Development Agency, growers and farm labor contractors to provide expedited inspections, plan review, and other licensing services totaling 608 H2A-related housing inspections. This is twice the number of H2A related inspections conducted during the 2016 license year.

Migrant Labor HousingMajed Ghussaini | 517-284-5621| [email protected]

METRICS GO HERE


MEASURING SUCCESS:



PROGRAM GOALS:• Work with stakeholders to update MLH licensing requirements and improve consistency with U.S.

Department of Labor and Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards for migrant and seasonal farmworkers.

• Improve document management and chain of custody for applications, inspection reports, water sample results, and licenses issued by the program.

• Complete design and test pilot an electronic inspection functionality that will increase efficiency of the inspection and licensing workflow process.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• Fruit and vegetable growers• Migrant farm workers and advocates• Consumers of fresh fruits and vegetables• H2A Guest Worker Program

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Public Health Code, Public Act 368 of 1978, Part 124, as amended

Metric 2014 2015 2016 2017Applications

Not Opening 50 76 43 200Opening 784 798 833 853

InspectionsLicensing 971 1,014 1,136 1132H2A 88 157 305 608CAP-Follow up 108 357 480 558Occupancy 713 718 820 830Enforcement 4 3 12 10Plan Review 44 84 154 180Total 1,771 1,934 2,401 2,443

LicensingCamps 772 774 801 811

Units 3,836 3,944 4,147 4046Capacity 23,583 24,100 24,862 25,054




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The Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative is a conservation initiative to restore and enhance Michigan pheasant habitat, populations, and hunting opportunities on private and public lands. The initiative is implemented through collaboration between the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Michigan Conservation Districts and various non-governmental organizations.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: Pheasants rely on high-quality grasslands and agricultural areas for adequate cover and food resources throughout their life. Changes in agriculture practices, urbanization, and reforestation have contributed to their declining numbers. Migratory bird and upland game hunting account for nearly $72.5 million in retail sales in Michigan. Grasslands and wetlands restored through the initiative reduce sediment and nutrient delivery by as much as75 percent.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Assisted 1,221 landowners implement wildlife habitat enhancing conservation practices

on 8,043 acres of private land.

• Aided with the restoration of 686 acres of wetlands on private lands.

• Enhanced 574 acres of wildlife habitat on lands open for public hunting.

• Hunting Access Program eligibility expanded to northern Lower Peninsula counties increasing access to hunting opportunities on private lands.

John Switzer | 517-284-5606 | [email protected]

Pheasant Restoration Initiative

METRICS GO HERE


MEASURING SUCCESS:



PROGRAM GOALS:• Increase access to quality pheasant hunting on both public and private lands.• Increase enrollment in the Habitat Incentive Program in the St. Joseph River Watershed. • Help 125 landowners implement 5,000 acres of wildlife friendly conservation practices on private lands.• Work toward strategic alignment with other programs.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS:• Michigan’s hunting community, especially pheasant hunters• Michigan landowners• Federal and state partnering agencies• Conservation districts

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, Public Act

451 of 1994, Part 93 (Soil Conservation Districts), as amended

Metric 2015 2016 2017

Conservation District Technical Staff Employed 8 8 9

Counties Served 16 16 14

Conservation Plans Developed 185 365 202

Acres of Conservation Practices Implemented 5,580 9,366 8,043

Farm Bill Biologist Outreach Events 64 89 81

Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program 77,000 82,000 43,000

Monies awarded - Wildlife Habitat Grant Projects $478,167 $465,223 $200,174

Acres improved - Wildlife Habitat Grants Projects 1,473 1,520 574

Pheasant Cooperatives 10 11 12

Hunting Access Program Enrollment Properties 170 188 180

Hunting Access Program Enrollment Acres 20,089 22,484 22,700




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PROGRAM MANAGER:


The Qualified Forest Program (QFP) provides a property tax exemption for private landowners who actively manage their forestland for commercial harvest. The goal of the program is to fuel regional economies through timber harvest and individual tax savings.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: More than 10 million acres of forested land in Michigan is owned by “non-industrial” private landowners. These lands are currently harvested at 1/3 the rate of forest growth, and consequently, millions of dollars of timber that could be harvested is going unutilized. By helping landowners manage their forestland, it is estimated that the QFP will stimulate over 900 additional forestry-related jobs, $195 million in business revenue, and $44 million in labor income.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

• Enrolled 77,224 new acres, bringing total participation to 444,817 acres.• Identified a new marketing strategy that targeted landowners through conservation districts that may be

eligible for enrollment. Current efforts have resulted in a 10 percent enrollment rate of landowners contacted.

• Streamlined and improved queries and functionality of the current database to provide meaningful data to partners in forestry.

Rich Harlow | 517-284-5627 | [email protected]

Qualified Forest Program

METRICS GO HERE


MEASURING SUCCESS:



PROGRAM GOALS:• Increase enrollment in the QFP by 100,000 acres for the 2019 tax year. • Continue to work with Forestry Assistance Program staff and other marketing partners toward the

development and implementation of new and existing targeted marketing campaigns to raise awareness of the benefits of the QFP.

• Meet with forestry stakeholders and other groups (i.e., local units of government) to develop relationships, discuss QFP and its benefits, and encourage collaborative efforts within the public and private sectors.

• Develop a new and improved database to improve efficiencies in processing time of applications and data management.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• Private forestland owners• Forest plan writers• Commercial foresters• Conservation district foresters• Forest products industry

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• MCL 211.7jj[1] (general provisions)• MCL 211.1033 (recapture tax imposition)• MCL 211.1034 (recapture tax rate)• MCL 324.51305 (private forest land enhancement fund)• MCL 324.51306 (qualified foresters)• MCL 380.1211 (exemption of qualified forest property)• MCL 211.1091-211.1101 (transitional qualified forest)

Metric 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Applications Submitted 326 637 702 610 681

Forest Management Plans Received 320 669 647 547 587

Acres from Commercial Forest (DNR) 1,839 8,557 8,191 1,227 1,772

New Acreage Enrolled for Year 49,581 73,065 81,875 68,494 77,224

Total Cumulative Acres Enrolled 144,158 217,223 299,099 367,593 444,817

Harvested Wood Products (in Cords) No Data 19,585 67,091 381,401 112,298

Harvested Timber Value (in Dollars) No Data $600,000 $2,885,998 $3,706,610 $3,143,995

Revenue Received from 2 Mill Fee (as of Report) No Data $63,892 $146,428 $61,068 $85,166




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PROGRAM MANAGER:


The Right to Farm Program investigates and resolves environmental and nuisance complaints involving farms in Michigan. Individuals with concerns regarding polluted runoff, excessive odor, or environmental issues associated with a specific farm may file a complaint for investigation with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: On-farm production agriculture is the foundation of Michigan’s $101.2 billion food and agriculture industry. Environmental performance on farms affects everyone’s water quality, air quality, and overall quality of life in rural areas where nearly all farms are located. The economic success and social viability of farms depends on their productivity, environmental performance, and social compatibility.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Timely investigation of new environmental complaints; average first response within five

business days.• Follow-up inspections to verify corrective farm management practices implemented.• On-farm environmental performance and pollution prevention practices maintained on

farms.• Science-based standards followed on farms and documented by inspections.

Right to Farm Complaint ResolutionBen Tirrell | 517-284-5618 | [email protected]

METRICS GO HERE


MEASURING SUCCESS:



PROGRAM GOALS:• Timely response to formal environmental complaints; initial on-site inspection within seven business

days.• Work with stakeholders to promote the implementation of applicable Generally Accepted Agricultural

and Management Practices on all Michigan farms.• Implement a new inspection data handling system with a revised database.• Implement a revised records management system reporting process.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• Michigan farmers • Rural non-farm neighbors• Local governments• Commodity organizations

LEGAL AUTHORITY:• Michigan Right to Farm Act, Public Act 93 of 1981, as amended

Metric 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017New Complaints Received 137 117 137 133 107

On-farm Investigations 153 133 154 154 167Initial On-site Inspection within Seven Business Days (%) 75 89 89 87 84

Follow-up Inspections 117 119 159 145 40

Proactive Inspection Requests 16 16 7 9 13

Category Determinations N/A 3 16 12 11

Case Status

Not-verified (%) 37 31 34 38 41

Abated / Open (%) 59 69 66 46 47

Withdrawn (%) 6 3

Transferred / Referred to DEQ (%) 5 4

Other – i.e., Not a Farm, Non-Conforms (%) 5 5




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PROGRAM MANAGER:


The Michigan Right to Farm Act provides broad definitions of a farm, farm operation, farm products, and a process for the development and adoption of Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs). GAAMPs are developed by Technical Advisory Committees and presented to the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development for review and approval. The GAAMPs cover the following:

• Manure Management and Utilization• Pesticide Utilization/Pest Control• Nutrient Utilization• Care of Farm Animals • Cranberry Production • Site Selection and Odor Control for New and

Expanding Livestock Facilities• Irrigation Water Use• Farm Markets

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: GAAMPs define socially and environmentally responsible farming practices used as the basis for conformance determination under the Right to Farm Act. Conformance with GAAMPs can be used as an affirmative defense against nuisance liability and protection against exclusionary zoning by local units of government. The number of task force meetings on each set of GAAMPs provides an indicator of the frequency of use, as well as updates needed. Manure Management and Livestock Site Selection typically see more changes than Pesticide Use and Pest Control, which is closely regulated, whereas very few complaints are received about cranberry production or farm markets.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Each of the eight GAAMPs review committee chairpersons were contacted to initiate

annual reviews.• MDARD staff participated in each GAAMPs review committee meeting.• Public input meetings were conducted on November 30, 2017, to receive feedback and

input on all draft GAAMPs.

Right to Farm GAAMPsBen Tirrell| 517-284-5618 | [email protected]

METRICS GO HERE


MEASURING SUCCESS:



PROGRAM GOALS:• Provide realistic on-farm information to review committees for consideration in the annual review

process and for proposed updates, edits, or changes to existing GAAMPs.• Relay comments and feedback about GAAMPs received from the general public to review committees.• Maintain effective working relationships with review committees and stakeholders.• Provide information on MDARD’s administration of the GAAMPs to the Commission.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• Michigan farmers and commodity organizations• State and local officials• Michigan Department of Environmental Quality• Michigan State University Extension• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service• Michigan conservation districts


Metric 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Manure Management and Utilization 3 1 3 2 1

Pesticide Use and Pest Control 0 0 0 0 0

Nutrient Utilization 1 1 2 0 0

Care of Farm Animals 0 1 0 1 1

Cranberry Production 0 0 0 0 0

Livestock Site Selection 7 2 5 5 2

Irrigation Water Use 1 0 0 0 0

Farm Markets 1 0 0 0 0




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PROGRAM MANAGER:


The Right to Farm Livestock Facility Site Selection Program is designed to help farmers properly plan, site, build, and maintain new and expanding livestock facilities. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development works with the farm to evaluate management practices and facility designs, as well as the proximity to non-farm neighbors, land use zoning, and existing land use considerations. An Odor Management Plan is a key component of this process for neighbor relations and social compatibility.

IMPACT FOR MICHIGAN: Livestock facilities in Michigan generate more than $3.3 billion in cash receipts each year. Yet, there are increasing social and environmental concerns regarding animal agricultural production in Michigan and across the nation. The Right to Farm Livestock Facility Site Selection Program allows this industry sector to grow in a manner that doesn’t create nuisance or environmental liability concerns.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • 49 new “Verification Requests” processed.• 70 Site Selection Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs)

inspections conducted.• $63 million a year in production capacity added to Michigan economy.

Right to Farm Livestock Facility SitingBen Tirrell | 517-284-5618 | [email protected]

METRICS GO HERE


MEASURING SUCCESS:



PROGRAM GOALS:• Provide “Acknowledgment of Receipt” letters to farms within five business days.• Complete Site Verification Review Team case file assessments for all new site verification requests

within 30 business days.• Increase education and outreach to animal agriculture industry on the Site Selection GAAMPs.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS• Michigan livestock producers • Rural non-farm neighbors• Local governments• Commodity organizations


Metric 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Site Selection Requests 40 58 46 50 49

New Facilities 19 22 13 25 25

Expanding Facilities 21 36 33 25 24

Livestock Species

Dairy 16 23 19 10 22

Swine 11 18 8 20 17

Poultry 3 7 16 18 9

Beef 3 6 3 1 0

Other 7 3 0 1 2

Category Determinations <50 Animal Units N/A 5 22 13 12

Facility Size

< 1,000 Animal Units 23 23 16 21 27

1,000 - 2,000 Animal Units 10 10 14 17 16

> 2,000 Animal Units 7 7 8 12 7

Annual Economic Benefit $74M $108M $66M $63M $75M

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP DIVISION - michigan.gov · TABLE OF CONTENTS. 03. Letter from the...

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