CROP ◆A ◆SYST FOR NURSERY CROP AND CHRISTMAS TREE PRODUCERS FAS 114 • October 2019

For MAEAP Verification: r Ii~ Contact the MAEAP Office at the MICHIGAN STATE I Extension Michigan Department of Agriculture U~IVERSITY & Rural Development MAEAP (517) 284-5609 -.,~~ Cropop◆A◆A◆Syst◆Syst

Nursery Crop and Christmas Tree System Improvement Action Plan

List high-risk practice(s) from Action plan Required for Risk Crop◆A◆Syst and medium-risk Management practice to reduce risk MAEAP Planned Indicate date question practices that do not meet MAEAP (include potential sources of verification? completion when requirements technical and financial assistance) date completed 1.01 Example: Soil nutrient tests not up-to-date Yes Perform soil tests on all fields going into (√) for all fields. new crops. Feb. 2019 Completed March 18, 2019

(continued on next page) 3 2 CCrropop◆◆A◆◆SystSyst

Nursery Crop and Christmas Tree System Improvement Action Plan (continued)

List high-risk practice(s) from Action plan ◆ ◆ Risk Crop A Syst and medium-risk Required for Management practice to reduce risk Planned Indicate date question practices that do not meet MAEAP MAEAP (include potential sources of completion when requirements verification? technical and financial assistance) date completed

(continued on next page) 34 CrCoprop◆A◆A◆◆SystSyst

Nursery Crop and Christmas Tree System Improvement Action Plan (continued)

List high-risk practice(s) from Action plan ◆ ◆ Risk Crop A Syst and medium-risk Required for Management practice to reduce risk Planned Indicate date question practices that do not meet MAEAP MAEAP (include potential sources of completion when requirements verification? technical and financial assistance) date completed

I understand that this cropping system assessment (Crop◆A◆ Syst) and corresponding Improvement Action Plan were developed on the basis that I have disclosed, to the best of my knowledge, all information pertaining to my nursery crop and Christmas tree cropping operations.

Farm address: Producer’s signature Street Date City Crop◆A◆Syst conducted by: State Zip Name Title Watershed name: Organization Date

MAEAP Verification Action Plan Date Target date for MAEAP verification of Cropping System Target date for MAEAP verification of Farmstead System Target date for MAEAP verification of Livestock System Target date for MAEAP verification of Forest, Wetlands, and Habitat System

4 For MAEAP verification, contact MAEAP office at the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development: 517-284-5609.

Crop◆A◆Syst

Introduction management practices that, when implemented, An MDARD inspector will schedule a site visit to ◆ ◆ Crop A Syst for Nursery Crop and Christmas will reduce negative impacts to the environment. complete the verification process. Tree Producers will assist growers in developing The Michigan Agriculture Environmental and implementing a management plan that pre- P.A. 451, Part 82, ensures the confidentiality of Assurance Program (MAEAP) is a vents contamination of groundwater and surface the producer information provided to MDARD for comprehensive, proactive and voluntary water resources and maintains economic crop verification. Any information connected with the agricultural pollution prevention program. It production. Plans will be consistent with development, implementation or verification of a takes a systems approach to assist producers applicable Michigan Right to Farm Generally conservation plan or conservation practice is in evaluating their farms for environmental Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices confidential. risks. The on-farm risk evaluation uses specific (GAAMPs) and state and federal environmental tools for each system. Environmentally assured The owner of a MAEAP verified Cropping System regulations. farms are eligible for various incentives and will be eligible for various incentives and can enjoy Nutrients used in nursery production come from recognitions. the peace of mind that comes from knowing that chemical fertilizers and natural sources such as Cropping System practices are consistent with the The Michigan Right to Farm Act authorizes the manure, compost, legumes and biosolids (sewage identified current Right to Farm GAAMPs. Verified Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural sludge). All nutrients, whether synthetic or Cropping Systems are positioned to achieve Development to develop and adopt GAAMPs for naturally occurring, can become mixed with regulatory compliance with state and federal farms and farm operations in Michigan. These surface water or groundwater by natural environmental laws. voluntary practices are based on available processes such as runoff and leaching. Nitrate technology and scientific research to promote Similar incentives are available for producers who contamination of groundwater and phosphorus sound environmental stewardship. The current have environmentally assured their Livestock and contamination of surface water are problems in Right to Farm GAAMPs are posted on the Farmstead Systems. Contact a local conservation Michigan. Crop◆A◆Syst for Nursery Crop and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural district, MSU Extension or Natural Resources Christmas Tree Producers will assess current Development (MDARD) Web site: Conservation Service (NRCS) representative for a nutrient management practices and identify www.michigan.gov/mdard. list of currently available incentives and alternative management practices that, when information on how to get started. ◆ ◆ implemented, will reduce nutrient losses to the Producers who complete the Crop A Syst for environment. Nursery Crop and Christmas Tree Production will be able to determine what management and What is the Crop Assessment Virtually all crops produced in Michigan may be record-keeping changes (if any) will be needed System for Nursery Crop and threatened by serious pest problems – weeds, for their Cropping System to be environmentally insects, mites and disease-producing organisms. assured through MAEAP. Once a producer Christmas Tree Producers? Producers are encouraged to adopt pest develops and implements a Nursery Crop and The Crop◆ A◆ Syst for Nursery Crop and Christmas management practices that achieve the desired Christmas Tree System Improvement Action Plan Tree Producers (Crop◆A◆Syst) is a series of risk quality while minimizing any adverse effects on to address the risks indicated by the Crop◆A◆Syst questions that will help assess how effectively non-target organisms, humans, and soil and water assessment, he or she can contact the Michigan ◆ ◆ crop management practices protect groundwater resources. Crop A Syst for Nursery Crop and Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and surface water resources. The risk questions Christmas Tree Producers will assess current pest ( MDARD ) at (517) 284-5609 to request a MAEAP are grouped in the following sections: management practices and identify alternative Cropping System verification inspection. 5

Crop◆A◆Syst

Nursery Crop and Christmas Tree System MAEAP management requirements are resources in the Nursery Crop and Christmas Improvement Action Plan aligned with state and federal environmental Tree System Improvement Action Plan regulations. The GAAMPs and (printed inside the front cover of the bulletin). 1 Nutrient Management Practices environmentally based agronomic Also include any medium-risk practices that 2 Soil and Water Conservation Practices management practices are supported by do not meet MAEAP verification 3 Pest Management Practices research. The records or evidence that requirements. indicate the approved management practices 4 Irrigation Management Practices 4) In the Cropping System Improvement Plan, list: have been implemented on the farm are 5 Water Use listed in the far right column. This evidence • Management practice(s) that are planned for implementation that will reduce the 6 Nursery Container Management will provide the basis for awarding environmental assurance through MAEAP. identified risk. 7 Other Environmental Risks in the Agricultural representatives (both public and • Sources of technical assistance. Cropping System private) can assist growers to make the • Target dates for accomplishing the changes. appropriate management changes to • Target date for MAEAP Cropping become environmentally assured through System verification. Each risk question assesses the impact of MAEAP. production practices on groundwater and ◆ ◆ A Few Final Words surface water resources. The risk question How Does Crop A Syst Work? answers indicate whether management ◆ ◆ 1) Select all relevant risk question sections for The key to Crop A Syst is that once practices have a low, medium or high risk of the farm or nursery. environmental risks are identified, the plan is contamination. Producers are generally implemented to reduce the risk(s). Some of recommended to adopt the low-risk 2) Answer the risk questions by selecting the the stewardship practices that will reduce management practices. Risk questions that answer that best describes management risks may cost very little and take very little address management practices that are practices used on the farm. Indicate the risk time to implement. Other practices may regulated by state or federal law indicate level in the column to the right. Skip any involve additional cost and may not be illegal practices with black bold print. questions that don’t apply. implemented for a few years. It is important, Risk questions that address management Note: for MAEAP verification, complete the however, to have a plan to follow. ◆ ◆ practices covered by the GAAMPs indicate a risk questions with a Crop A Syst trained After a plan is developed and changes are management practice consistent with a individual. A MAEAP technician is located in implemented to address the risks, the farm specific GAAMPs with blue bold italic print. the conservation district office. is ready for MAEAP Cropping System 3) After completing each section of risk verification. Finally, a blue box indicates the management questions, list the practices that

level(s) required for MAEAP verification. present a high risk of contaminating

groundwater and surface water 6

Nutrient Management Practices RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK 1.00) Has there ever There has never been a Right There was a formal Right Producer’s verbal indication of been a formal Right to to Farm complaint, or the to Farm complaint and complaint history. Farm complaint against concern was not verified, or the concern was not the farm? the concern was resolved. resolved. 1.01) How often are All fields are sampled and Most fields are sampled Fields have not been Field names or map. Acres in fields tested for nutrient tested on a regular basis, at and tested every 1 to 4 tested within the past 4 the cropped portions of the levels (P, K, Ca, Mg and 1 to 4 years, depending on years. Producer plans years. field. Up-to-date soil test pH)? crops being grown, and the to bring all field soil tests reports, or schedule to bring all cropping system. up to date. tests up-to-date. 1.02) Do soil sampling One composite sample taken One composite sample Soil types/soil maps procedures adequately from uniform field areas. taken from areas greater demonstrating uniformity. represent field One composite sample Cropping histories. Proper soil conditions? taken from areas greater sampling procedure. than 40 acres. 1.03) Is the soil pH The soil pH maintained in the The soil pH is not maintained in the desirable range to enhance monitored or maintained desirable range for the nutrient availability. in the desirable range. crop(s) being grown? 1.04) How are all Credit taken for nutrients When organic matter, When organic matter, Written records indicate sources of nutrients supplied by organic matter, legumes, manure or legumes, manure or other nutrient credits utilized. considered when making legumes and manure or other biological materials biological materials fertilization decisions? other biological materials (biosolids, compost) are (biosolids, compost) are (biosolids). Fertilizer rates are used, fertilizer rates are used, rates are not reduced accordingly. sometimes reduced. reduced. 1.05) How are fertilizer Consistent with Michigan Occasionally exceed Often or always exceed Applications consistent with application rates State University (MSU) MSU or equivalent MSU or equivalent MSU recommendations. When determined? recommendations. When recommendations. recommendations. MSU recommendations are MSU recommendations are not available, other land-grant not available, other land-grant university or equivalent university recommendations recommendations developed developed for the region may for the region may be used. be used.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 7 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Nutrient Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF MAEAP YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) VERIFICATION RISK 1.06) How are nutrient Annual nutrient plan is A nutrient plan is Nutrient plan not developed Annual nutrient plan by field or by management plans for developed for each field that developed each year, or the same plan used for crop grown. each field annually meets crop nutrient needs for each crop more than 4 years. developed and and minimizes loss of management block. followed? nutrients to the environment. Soil tests are up-to- date. 1.07) Is fertilizer Application equipment Application equipment not Name of person responsible for application equipment checked annually for rate checked. fertilizer applicator adjustments checked for proper of application and and the dates of adjustments. adjustment? placement. Over and under applications monitored and corrected. 1.08) What soil Records of soil test Partial nutrient Minimal or no nutrient Three years of records, or five nutrient management reports and quantities of management records management records kept. years if applying. manure, or plans records are kept? nutrients applied to are kept. Complete to begin keeping records. individual fields are nutrient management -Soil fertility tests and/or plant maintained. Also, crop records will be kept in analysis results. performance evaluated. the future, for review -Previous crop grown and yield at time of harvested. reverification. -Date(s) of application(s). -Nutrient composition of fertilizer or other material used. -Amount of nutrient-supplying material applied per acre. -Method of application and placement of applied nutrients. -Vegetative growth and cropping history of perennial crops.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. Bold Black print 8 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Nutrient Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK 1.09) When not in use, Supply vehicle is returned to a Fertilizer and pesticide Map showing areas where are loaded planting secure location when not in (including treated seed) adjacent to wells where and spray supply vehicles use. Fertilizer and pesticides supply vehicle is left in an vehicles should not be (trailers and trucks) parked (including treated seed) unsecured location or parked. No evidence of to protect water resources properly stored more than 150 fertilizer and pesticides vehicles left in an from accidental fertilizer feet down gradient from any stored less than 150 feet unsecured location. 1 and pesticide spills and well. from any well. mischievous activities? 1.10) How is manure Manure and/or compost Manure and/or compost Acceptable temporary and/or compost stockpiles are kept a least stockpiles are closer than manure and/or compost temporarily stockpiled in 150 feet from surface waters 150 feet to surface waters storage demonstrated. relation to surface water? or areas subject to flooding or areas subject to flooding, Adequate isolation from unless conservation and conservation practices surface water. practices are used to protect are not used to protect against runoff and erosion against runoff and erosion 4 losses to surface waters. losses to surface waters. 1.11) For temporarily Manure, and/or compost, is Manure, and/or Manure, and/or compost, is Appropriate temporary stacked manure, and/or managed in a manner to compost, is stacked on stacked on course-textured manure, and/or compost, compost, how is the site prevent runoff and/or somewhat permeable, soils or above tile drains. storage demonstrated. managed to protect leaching of nutrients to medium-textured soils. No means of runoff or Adequate isolation from surface water, surface water or groundwater Partial or no barrier is leachate control. Slope is surface water. groundwater, and/or and to minimize odor impacts used to trap runoff. toward surface water. neighboring properties? upon neighbors. Manure is However, runoff is Signs of runoff past stacked on impermeable diverted and passes perimeter of vegetated area surfaces (concrete, etc.) or through a vegetated or storage site, with runoff compacted soils, and storage filter strip or other reaching surface water. area contains a well-maintained treatment process. Runoff and/or leachate barrier such as a wooden or discharge directly to 4 concrete wall or earthen berm surface water. to trap runoff. Construction and management practices for composing are implemented using NRCS Composting Facility No. 317 standards.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 9 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Nutrient Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK 1.12) How long is manure Manure is spread as soon Manure stockpiled for more Manure and/or compost not and/or compost stockpiled as field and weather than six months without a stockpiled for more than 365 in the field? conditions allow, and does cover, or more than twelve days. not exceed six months; or months with an impermeable if covered with an cover. impermeable cover, twelve months. 1.13) Is clean water (i.e. Clean runoff is diverted. Clean water is not Runoff is not diverted and is Visual inspection of storage roof and surface runoff) diverted but is captured, contaminated. Runoff water site(s). diverted away from the treated, or stored. is not captured, treated or manure and/or compost stored and discharges 4 storage facility? directly to surface water. NITROGEN MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 1.14) How are nitrogen (N) Controlled-release or split Single application where Single application where fertilizer applications nitrogen fertilizer leaching or runoff leaching or runoff potentials matched to the demand of applications. potentials are low. are high. the crop and the conditions of the soil? FIELD PHOSPHORUS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 1.15) How are phosphorus Based on soil tests or P fertilization based on P fertilization based on P management consistent (P) fertilization rates plant tissue analysis using past practices, without applying as much as is with Nutrient Management determined? Michigan State University regard to soil test P affordable. GAAMPs. or equivalent recommended levels. rates.

1.16) Where is the All nursery crops P is P fertilizer is surface P fertilizer is surface applied phosphorus banded as a starter fertilizer applied and not and not incorporated where (P) fertilizer placed? at planting time, or P incorporated where runoff potentials are high. fertilizer is surface broadcast runoff potentials are but incorporated when limited. possible to prevent runoff or applied as a controlled- release fertilizer in container production. A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 10 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Nutrient Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF MAEAP VERIFICATION YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) RISK FIELD PHOSPHORUS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (CONTINUED) 1.17) How often is P fertilizer is never Broadcast applications P fertilizer is often Date(s) of application(s) of P fertilizers. commercial broadcast on frozen avoided on frozen or broadcast on frozen Phosphorus (P) or snow-covered snow-covered fields or snow-covered fertilizer applied on fields. and are not part of the fields. frozen or snow nutrient management covered fields? plan. MANURE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (IF MANURE IS NOT USED, SKIP THIS SECTION.) 1.18) What manure Complete application A minimum of one Minimal or no records Additional records that are needed if manure is management records records of manure season of manure maintained. used in the nursery cropping system: are maintained? analysis, soil test application records, or -Date(s) of manure/wastewater application(s) results and rates of partial application (calendar) manure application records have been kept. -Source, rate, and form of manure/wastewater for individual fields Complete manure applied are maintained. application records will -Date, rate(s), and form of other nutrients applied be kept immediately and -Date(s) of incorporation will be available for -Method of application (e.g., surface-applied, review at the time of re- injected, irrigated) verification. -Acres and area of field nutrients applied -Weather and field conditions during application of manure (e.g., sunny, 70°F) -Recommended nutrient application rates -Previous crops grown and yields -Plant tissue sampling and testing reports (where applicable) -Complete N, P, K nutrient budget by field -Manure/wastewater quantities produced and nutrient analysis results -Inspection and maintenance records -Records of rental agreements or other agreements for application of manure/wastewater on land not owned by the producer -Record of manure/wastewater sold or given away to other landowners A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 11 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Nutrient Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK MANURE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (IF MANURE IS NOT USED, SKIP THIS SECTION.) 1.19) How is the Laboratory analysis for percent Book values or standard Manure nutrient content All manure analyses or nutrient content of dry matter (solids), ammonium, nutrient content values used. is unknown. book values on file. manure determined? and total N, P and K.

1.20) How are desired Manure analysis (book value, Manure application rate Rate of manure applied is manure application manure test, or mass balance) is not known. known for all spreaders. rates achieved? and field application rates are Records indicate date of known. calibration.

1.21) How is manure, Manure, and/or compost, is Manure, and/or compost, is Manure, and/or Fields that receive and/or compost, incorporated within 48 hours or generally surface-applied, compost, is applied in a manure, and/or compost, generally applied to injected into the soil, and/or and conservation practices manner that results in applications are properly fields? conservation practices (residue are employed to reduce the ponding, soil erosion managed. management, cover crops, risk of runoff. losses, or manure runoff perennial crops etc.) are used to to adjacent property, protect against runoff and drainage ditches, or erosion losses to surface discharges directly to waters. surface water.4 1.22) How are streams, Manure is incorporated within Conservation practices are Manure is applied within Field maps with setbacks wetlands, farm ditches 48 hours or injected. Or, maintained on some fields. 150 feet of surface and conservation practices and other water bodies surface applications are not waters and not identified. Records of protected from manure done within 150 feet of surface incorporated without manure incorporation. runoff? water. Or, filter strips, riparian conservation practices. buffer strips, and other And/or, manure conservation practices are occasionally reaches maintained between fields and neighbor’s property. surface waters on the farm and around surface water inlets. 1.23) How are manure If Bray P1 reaches 150 ppm, Manure application rates Manure rates do not phosphorus application manure applications not based on soil test. exceed crop P needs. rates managed? discontinued.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 12 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Nutrient Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK MANURE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (IF MANURE IS NOT USED, SKIP THIS SECTION.) 1.24) How are fields No applications on frozen Manure application risks index Applications are made to Completed MARI for each selected for manure or snow-covered ground (MARI) has been completed for fields where runoff to field receiving winter spreading on frozen and without injection or each field receiving manure on water resources may manure application, or snow-covered ground? incorporation. frozen or snow-covered ground. occur. spreading plan that does Frozen or snow-covered fields not include winter receiving manure have met spreading. MARI criteria for Low or Very Low rating and no liquid manure is applied on slopes greater than 3%, and no solid manure is applied to slopes over 6%. 1.25) How are field tiles Liquid manure is Tile outlets are not Tiled fields identified on managed to prevent prevented from reaching monitored for manure map. Record of tile flow manure discharge to tile lines. Management discharge. before and after application surface water? practices are in place to (flow, rate, color and odor). prevent runoff to surface inlets. Tile line outlets are monitored. 1.26) Is manure The cropping system is Manure odors are not managed to minimize managed to reduce the minimized. odor? frequency and intensity of manure odors.

BIOSOLIDS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (If biosolids are not used, skip this section.) 1.27) Has nutrient Received laboratory Have not received any Biosolids analyses on file. content information on analysis for percent dry biosolids analysis the biosolids applied to matter (solids), ammonium information. the farm or nursery been N (NH4-N), and total N,P received? and K and utilize nutrient credits when planning nutrient program.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 13 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Nutrient Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK BIOSOLIDS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (IF BIOSOLIDS ARE NOT USED, SKIP THIS SECTION) 1.28) How are the rates of Received actual Have not received any Biosolids application records. biosolids (in gallons or dry application rated from the biosolids rate or nutrient tons per acre) and applied biosolids generator or its application information. biosolids nutrients known? land application contractor. Nutrient rates are consistent with MSU or equivalent recommendations. Soil and Water Conservation Practices 2.01) Have Environmentally sensitive Some environmentally sensitive Environmentally sensitive Areas identified on field maps environmentally sensitive areas are identified. areas are identified. areas are not considered. with appropriate management areas been identified (land Family members, or setbacks. near surface water, highly employees and Areas: erodible soils, soils with contractors are aware of -Next to surface waters. high leaching or runoff and understand the -Fields with shallow potentials, wells, surface management practices to groundwater. drains and inlets) that protect these areas. -Fields with water wells. require additional -Areas near surface water management when inlets. applying nutrients and -Fields with highly erodible pesticides? soils. -Fields with highly leachable soils. -Surface drains. -Fields with high runoff potential. Training/communications plan to inform workers and contractors of appropriate management or setbacks.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 14 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Soil and Water Conservation Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK 2.02) Is soil erosion under Soil erosion losses are RUSLE2 and WEPS are run on Excessive soil erosion RUSLE2 and WEPS control on the nursery within tolerances as fields that are not: is occurring on the calculations completed fields? documented by the revised farm. for worst-case fields on universal soil loss equation In pasture or hay ground, or no-till the basis of soils, slopes, (RUSLE2) and the wind planting systems. rotation, etc. erosion prediction system (WEPS). Minimal evidence Receiving fall tillage, with >30% of erosion and no evidence residue on less than 12% slopes. of concentrated water flows. Cover crop may be in place. Receiving more than one pass fall tillage that leaves fields rough with >40% residue and less than 8% slopes.

And regardless of fall tillage, spring tillage leaves > 20% residue.

And for all of the above there is no evidence of sheet, rill or gully erosion. 2.03) Are all streams, Filter strips, riparian buffer Conservation practices are No conservation wetlands, farm ditches, and strips, grassed waterways maintained on some fields. practices are other bodies of water in the and other conservation maintained. Nursery nursery protected from practices are maintained stock grown polluted runoff and between fields and all immediately next to sediment with conservation surface waters at the surface waters, practices? nursery. drainage ditches and roads. 2.04) Are cover crops Cover crops are included in Cover crops are used occasionally. Cover crops are not planted in fields and driving the crop rotation to protect used. lanes to prevent soil soil and water resources and erosion, trap nutrients and control erosion. pesticides, and improve soil quality?

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 15 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Soil and Water Conservation Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK 2.05) Are soil quality Soil quality indicators (e.g., Some soil quality No soil quality indicators indicators evaluated? earthworm populations, water indicators are evaluated. are evaluated. infiltration rates, soil compaction, percent plant and residue cover, pH, cation exchange capacity [CEC] and percent organic matter) are evaluated on all fields. 2.06) Are conservation and Owner or trained individual Conservation and Practices are not management practices routinely inspects and evaluates management practices inspected nor evaluated. routinely inspected and conservation and management are informally evaluated evaluated? practices. during field operations. Pest Management Practices 3.01) Are pesticides stored Pesticides are not stored in the Pesticides are stored in Pesticides are stored Appropriate pesticide in the field? field. the field meeting all of the throughout the year and storage demonstrated. pesticide storage do not meet all of the requirements from the pesticide storage FAS Section 3, Pesticide requirements from the Storage and Handling. FAS 107: Section 3, Pesticide Storage and Handling. 3.02) How does the grower Attends educational meetings, Occasionally attends Relies on outdated pest stay current on new pest reads educational materials educational meetings and management practices. management practices and provided by the university or other read new pest strategies for weeds, reliable sources. Adopts at least management materials. insects and diseases? one new pest management practices adopted on a trial basis each year. 3.03) Does the grower Employs and independent crop Relies on outdated pest consult with a pest consultant throughout the growing management practices. management consultant or season that is knowledgeable of service during the growing Integrated Pest Management season? (IPM) OR, Utilizes public reports and services from the university, local agribusiness or other reliable providers. A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 16 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Pest Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE YOUR RISK (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) OF MAEAP VERIFICATION PEST PREVENTION AND AVOIDANCE 3.04) Does the grower Previous pest populations, pest No. review previous growing suppression activities/pesticide season pest management usage and crop yield/injury are activities and results? reviewed. Records used for future pest management plans. 3.05) When available, are Certified or quality seed and Bin-run or uncertified Use saved seed or certified seed or plant planting materials used whenever planting material that is planting materials that is materials (tubers, crowns, possible. cleaned and treated. untreated and potentially transplants, etc.) used that infected with insects, are insect, weed and weed and/or disease disease-free? pests. 3.06) Are pest resistant Pest resistant and tolerant varieties Varieties without and tolerant varieties are planted when available. resistance and tolerance planted? are planted, resulting in the need for pest suppression practices. MONITORING 3.07) Are fields scouted All fields are scouted on a weekly Fields are scouted at Fields are not scouted. for pests during the schedule, by a qualified individual critical times, but not on growing season? trained in IPM. Scouting reports and a weekly basis. records are filed. 3.08) Are weather On-farm weather station(s) provide Consumer weather Weather conditions are conditions relevant to pest data to assist with crop and pest information used for crop not considered when management monitored? management decisions. and pest management making crop and pest (i.e. air and soil OR, MSU Enviro-weather decisions. management decisions. temperature, precipitation, (www.enviroweather.msu.edu) or soil moisture, wind speed other weather-based models are and direction, leave used to assist with crop and pest wetness, etc.) management decisions.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 17 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Pest Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) FOR MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK MONITORING (CONTINUED) 3.09) Does the farm or Farm or nursery works to Nursery does not work nursery comply with all comply with all MDARD nursery to comply with all

Michigan Department of inspection requirements. MDARD nursery 15 Agriculture and Rural inspection requirements. Development (MDARD) nursery inspection requirements? PESTICIDE APPLICATION 3.10) Are soil Soil characteristics (texture and Whole-field application Pesticides are applied at characteristics and field organic matter) and field rates are based on the full labeled rates without conditions considered conditions (slope and moisture) most vulnerable soil type regard to vulnerable soil when making pesticide are assessed when deciding on in the field. characteristics or field applications? pesticide application practices. conditions. Site-specific or variable-rate technology may be used. 3.11) How are surface Pesticide labels with Labeled directions are Field maps (risk question 17 water and groundwater groundwater and surface water not followed. Spray 2.01) indicating pesticide protected in and near advisory statements are applied adjacent to or over label setbacks and shallow fields from pesticide followed. top of surface water, tile groundwater restrictions are contamination? drain inlet or well. Field followed. restrictions for shallow groundwater are ignored. 3.12) Are leaching/runoff Pesticides with the lowest Leaching/runoff and Pesticide choice is not and toxicity potentials potentials for leaching, runoff toxicity potentials are based on leaching/runoff considered when making and non-target toxicity are occasionally considered and toxicity potentials. pesticide decisions? always selected for use in when selecting soil- Only cost and fields. applied pesticides. effectiveness are considered. 3.13) Are the purchasers The purchaser and applicator Non-certified and RUP certification confirmed. and applicators of of RUP comply with the unsupervised 6 Restricted Use Pesticides certification requirements. applicators use RUP. (RUP) certified applicators? A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 18 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Pest Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) FOR MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK PESTICIDE APPLICATION (CONTINUED) 3.14) How are Workers and handlers: Worker Protection Complete list of worker workers and pesticide -Follow specific label Standard requirements protection standards can be handlers protected requirements. are partially met or found at: from exposure to -Are provided ignored. 19 www.epa.gov/pesticides/ pesticides? decontamination supplies. health/worker.htm. -Are trained or certified applicators. -Are informed of pesticide applications. -Are provided personal protective equipment. -Are provided emergency assistance, if needed. 3.15) If pesticides are A mixing and loading pad is Mixing and loading are done in Pesticides are mixed Proper pesticide mixing and mixed and loaded in used. Mixing and loading are different locations in the field, more and loaded at the same loading demonstrated. the field, how are done more than 150 feet from than 150 feet from a private well, spot in the field year they handled? any well and more than 50 more than 800 feet from a public after year without a feet from surface waters. well, and more than 50 feet from mixing and loading pad. surface waters. A mixing and loading pad is not used. 3.16) How are empty Containers are triple rinsed Disposal of empty containers Disposal of partially Evidence of containers pesticide containers or power rinsed, punctured and bags on the farm or nursery filled containers. being recycled or proper rinsed and disposed? and returned to dealer, property. 8 ,17 Burning of container disposal. recycled, or taken to licensed on the farm or nursery landfill. Bags are returned to property.8 ,17 dealer or taken to licensed landfill. Properly rinsed containers can be disposed of in a dumpster that is taken to a licensed landfill. 3.17) Do pesticide Everyone using pesticides Label and labeling Evidence that labels are applicators read and follows label and labeling instructions not followed for environmental follow the label instructions. always followed. 17 concerns. instructions?

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 19 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Pest Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK

PESTICIDE APPLICATION (CONTINUED) 3.18) What management Pesticides with different modes of Some but not all Pest resistance is not practices are used to action are rotated within a season or pesticide modes of considered when selecting prevent the development from one season to the next or used action are rotated or pesticides. Refuge of pest resistance to in tank mixes where permitted. tank mixed. Pesticides at requirements for transgenic certain pesticides. Pesticides at highest risk of highest risk of resistance seed are ignored. resistance are not used when are used sparingly. alternatives are available. 6 3.19) Is a spill kit A spill kit, containing a shovel, No spill kit is available Adequate spill kit present. immediately available to absorbent material, PPE, and a or no plan is in place to pesticide applicators in container is immediately available. contain spills. the field?

3.20) How is excess Spray mixture is applied to Spray mixture dumped at Evidence that excess spray mixture or rinse labeled site at or below labeled farmstead or in nearby mixtures and rinsates are water from the interior of rate of application or appropriately field or pond. 4 properly managed. the spray system stored for later use. disposed? 3.21) Where is the Washed in containment or washed in Washed in the same Satisfactory explanation exterior of the spray the field in different locations >200’ location without collection, of procedures for washing equipment and tractor from surface water, catch basins or or in the field <200’ from spray equipment. washed if there is tile inlets and >150’ from a well. the surface water, catch accumulated residue? basins or tile inlets or <150’ from a well. 3.22) How is Applied to a site where there is Dumped at the farmstead, Records of application accumulated spray growing vegetation or where a crop in the field or a direct are provided. building wastewater or will be planted following labeled discharge to surface other comingled rinsates setbacks at or below labeled rates. water. 4 that cannot be directly Application areas are rotated and applied to growing crops records of contents of material and disposed? application site are kept. Or taken to a hazardous waste landfill.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 20 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Pest Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF MAEAP YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) VERIFICATION RISK PESTICIDE APPLICATION (CONTINUED) 3.23) How is the Equipment is correctly Pesticide application Date equipment calibrated annually. proper and safe calibrated at least annually equipment not properly 6 operation of and leaks minimized to calibrated. pesticide apply intended rate and application distribution pattern. equipment ensured? 3.24) How are A written drift management Pesticide applications Spraying operations are Written drift management plan on file. pesticide plan is utilized that follow labeled completed regardless applications minimizes off target drift. instructions for target of weather conditions assured to remain pests, but no drift or forecast, and on-target and management plan is regardless of potential minimize off target utilized. for off-target drift. 6 pesticide spray drift? 3.25) What Accurate records Partial pesticide No record is kept. Pesticide records for the past three years pesticide maintained of all records kept. Plan to Chemicals used are on file (or plans to maintain records). application records agricultural crop maintain complete known by memory or - Date of application are kept? applications of pesticides pesticide application invoices only. - Time of application for at least three years. records. - Pesticide brand/product name - Pesticide formulation - EPA registration number - Active ingredient(s) - Restricted-entry interval - Rate per acre or unit - Crop, commodity, stored product, or site that received the application - Total amount of pesticide applied - Size of area treated - Applicator’s name - Applicator’s certification number - Location of the application - Method of application - Target pest - Carrier volume/acre A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 21 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Pest Management Practices (continued) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK PESTICIDE APPLICATION (CONTINUED) 3.26) Are areas of the At least two acres are devoted Some areas of the nursery No habitat is provided for Note: Cost share is available nursery set aside as to conservation of native bees are set aside to provide pollinators. through enrollment in the USDA habitat for pollinators? and other pollinators by flowers for bees and other pollinator conservation providing flowers through the pollinators. programs (e.g., USDA’s FSA season, and this is planted CRP-SAFE pollinator program). with a specific mix of wildflowers for this purpose. 3.27) How are Field borders and boundaries Beneficial insect beneficial insect are managed to encourage management is not populations beneficial insects. Pesticides considered. encouraged? are chosen to minimize damage to beneficial insects. 3.28) If a soil fumigant A written, site-specific A FMP is not prepared.17 pesticide is used on fumigation management plan the farm, is a that meets US EPA fumigation requirements is prepared and management plan utilized before fumigation (FMP) utilized? begins? 3.29) How are Call 911, sheriff, fire or No contact to state or local Farm emergency plan on file, or agriculture pollution emergency services authorities. Spill local emergency telephone emergencies handled? department for personal safety discharges directly to numbers immediately available. issues. All uncontained spills surface water. 4 or releases should be reported to the MDARD Agriculture Pollution Emergency Hotline: 1-800-405-0101, or the MDEGLE Pollution Emergency Alerting System: 1-800-292- 4706.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 22 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Irrigation Management Practices (If Irrigation is not used, skip this section.) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK SYSTEM MANAGEMENT 4.01) Have all irrigation All irrigation systems Some irrigation systems Irrigation system uniformity Uniformity tests on file. systems been have been evaluated for have been evaluated for has not been evaluated. Schedule for evaluating evaluated for uniformity. Corrections are uniformity. Remainder of systems that have not been application uniformity? made to the system to systems scheduled to be evaluated. improve uniformity. evaluated. 4.02) How is the All water applications are Water applications are Water application amounts Irrigation water delivered by amount of irrigation accurately determined – estimated or based on rates not determined. Excess irrigation is accurately water delivered -by knowing actual flow given by irrigation vendor or application occurs. determined. accurately determined. delivered (GPM) and time of installation company. application. -or, by using a flow meter -or, by average output caught with system evaluation. 4.03) Are all sprinkler All sprinkler systems Most sprinkler systems Sprinkler systems often No field evidence of off-target systems operated to operated to minimize drift operated to minimize drift operated under windy applications. minimize drift and off- and off-target application. and off-target application. conditions. Water sprayed target application? No off- target irrigation Few off-target irrigation over roads, adjacent application present. applications occur. property or structures. 4.04) Is noise control Noise control provided In most areas of concern, Noise control is not provided provided when when needed. noise control is provided where needed. needed? when needed.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 23 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Irrigation Management Practices (If Irrigation is not used, skip this section.) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK RECORD KEEPING 4.05) Are proper The following irrigation system Most of irrigation system Few or no irrigation system Irrigation records on file, or irrigation system management records are collected management records are management records are plans to maintain. management records and retained: collected and retained. collected and retained. collected and -Crop type and location Plan to maintain complete retained for use in -Source of the water used irrigation records. decision-making and -Date, method and amount of each for reference in case irrigation water application of complaints? -All system inspections and repairs that influence uniformity and leaks -Calibration of fertigation and chemigation equipment if used -Records on system uniformity evaluation IRRIGATION SCHEDULING 4.06) How is irrigation Irrigation water is scheduled on the Irrigation water is Irrigation water applied at a Scheduling system evident scheduling used to basis of: scheduled on the basis of set rate per week if no by records. determine when it is -Available soil water for each unit observed soil moisture precipitation is received, or necessary to irrigate scheduled content and/or daily water amounts of water applied and how much water -Depth of rooting for each crop crop usage. through irrigation are not should be applied irrigated adjusted for crop stages. during each irrigation - Container capacity for container- event? grown nursery crops -Allowable soil moisture depletion at each stage of crop growth -Measured, estimated, or published evapotranspiration data to determine crop water use -Measure rainfall in each field irrigated

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 24 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Irrigation Management Practices (If Irrigation is not used, skip this section.) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK IRRIGATION SCHEDULING (CONTINUED) 4.07) Is there a rain Every field being managed Most fields have a rain No rain gauges or only one rain Rain gauges in all irrigated gauge in every irrigated for irrigation has a rain gauge; plan to have gauge at the farmstead. fields, or plan to maintain in field? gauge in the field. Rain gauge in all fields. all fields. events are observed and used in conjunction with irrigation scheduling.

IRRIGATION PRACTICES TO AVOID RUNOFF AND LEACHING 4.08) Is irrigation water Sprinkler application rates Most sprinkler application Sprinkler application rates No indication of significant runoff and ponding are below the soil rates are below the soil exceed the soil infiltration rate. runoff or ponding in irrigated minimized? infiltration rate. Nutrient infiltration rate. Some Runoff and/or ponding is fields. leaching is minimized. runoff and/or ponding is commonly visible. present.

4.09) How far is the 200 feet or greater. Less than 200 feet with Less than 200 feet. Appropriate chemigation fertilizer/ pesticide appropriate security storage, or chemigation storage, or measures. fertigation/chemigation fertigation/chemigation system isolation from system located from surface water. surface water (pond, streams, rivers, drains, etc.)? 4.10) Is excess Irrigation water Excess irrigation water Excess irrigation water irrigation avoided? applications in excess of applications may occur applications are common. the quantity of water occasionally. needed to replace the soil/substrate moisture deficit are avoided.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 25 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Irrigation Management Practices (If Irrigation is not used, skip this section.) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK WELLHEAD PROTECTION 4.11) Is the irrigation Anti-backflow device Anti-backflow device No anti-backflow device,1 Isolation distances field well adequately installed, including a installed, including a no secondary containment and confirmed. protected from reduced pressure zone reduced pressure zone less than 150 feet isolation 1 contamination from (RPZ) valve, double check (RPZ) valve, double check distance from irrigation well. pesticides and valve assembly, or valve assembly, or fertilizers when chemigation valve with an chemigation valve with an fertigation or internal air gap and internal air gap, agricultural chemigation is used? agricultural chemical/fertilizer storage chemical/fertilizer storage and preparation areas have and preparation areas are at secondary containment, but least 150 feet from the well, storage and preparation or at least 50 feet from the areas are less than 50 feet well containment. Air gap is from the well.1 twice the diameter of the fill Air gap is twice the diameter pipe or 6 inches, whichever of the fill pipe or 6 inches, is greater. whichever is greater. 4.12) If the irrigation Anti-backflow device No anti-backflow device Anti-backflow device well is inter-connected installed, including a installed.1 installed, including a with a surface water reduced pressure zone reduced pressure zone source, is the well (RPZ) valve, double check (RPZ) valve, double check protected from backflow valve assembly, or valve assembly, or (back pressure and chemigation valve with an chemigation valve with an back siphonage) from internal air gap that protects internal air gap. the surface water into the well from back pressure the well? and back siphonage into the well. Air gap is twice the diameter of the fill pipe or 6 inches, whichever is greater. A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 26 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Irrigation Management Practices (If Irrigation is not used, skip this section.) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK WELLHEAD PROTECTION (CONTINUED) 4.13) How far is the Tank is more than 50 feet Tank is 50 feet or less Appropriate fuel storage irrigation fuel tank away or has some other away from surface isolation distance from from a storm drain, engineering control present water 15 surface water. surface water, or that would control or divert and without an designated wetland? a spill from reaching a engineering control in storm drain, surface water, place. or designated wetland.

4.14) Is a horizontal -HSW outlets are clearly -HSW outlets are clearly identified as HSW is being used for Low or medium risk criteria sock well (HSW) identified as not being not being suitable for human human consumption, are present or present in the suitable for human consumption. shares common demonstrated. cropping system? consumption. -HSW is completely separated (no piping with a potable -HSW is completely common piping) from any potable water supply, does separated (no common water supply system. not have both ends piping) from any potable -HSW meets isolation distance clearly identified, or water supply system. requirements the entire horizontal does not meet State -HSW meets isolation length of the HSW, except for of Michigan isolation distance requirements the chemigation/fertigation systems distances or MAEAP entire horizontal length of during active use season that have standard for its entire the HSW backflow prevention device horizontal length.1,3 -Both ends of the HSW are installed, including a reduced identified. pressure zone (RPZ) valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap and secondary containment. -Both ends of the HSW are identified.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 27 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Water Use RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR RISK (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION WATER USE REPORTING 5.01) If the groundwater and Pump capacity is less than Pump capacity is Records indicate surface water pumps have a 100,000 gallons per day greater than 100,000 compliance. combined capacity to pump (70 gallons per minute). gallons per day (70 more than 100.000 gallons Or, Register and report gallons per minute) and per day (70 gallons per annual water use to water use is not minute) for agricultural Michigan Department of reported to the State of purposes, has water use Agriculture and Rural Michigan.13 been registered and Development by April 1. reported to the State of Michigan? 5.02) Is there an unused well No unused well, or Unused well temporarily Unused, unsealed well Unused well(s) properly located in the cropping abandoned well properly abandoned properly. in cropping area.1 sealed. area? sealed. -Meets minimum isolation distances -Is disconnected from any water distribution piping. -Has the top of the casing securely capped. 5.03) Have new or increased The Water Withdrawal No, a new water Producer’s verbal large quantity water Assessment Tool (WWAT) withdrawal exceeding indication of compliance withdrawals been registered was used to determine if a 70 gallons per minute with regulation. (pumping capacity greater proposed withdrawal or has been established than 70 gallons per minute, expansion is likely to without the use of the or 100,000 gallons per day, cause an Adverse WWAT.13 for systems established after Resource Impact, and to July 9, 2009)? register the water withdrawal with MDEGLE, prior to beginning the withdrawal. The WWAT and registration site is www.deq.state.mi.us/wwat

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 28 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Nursery Container Management (If containers are not used, skip this section.) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE OF YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK IRRIGATION 6.01) What happens to Runoff is collected, filtered Runoff does not pond and Runoff is not collected and No evidence of runoff or runoff in areas with and/or treated and reused. does not enter surface directly discharges to erosion. containers? water. surface water.4

6.02) Are runoff storage Runoff collection areas can Runoff collection areas Runoff collection areas areas sized adequately? store an average rain event. cannot store an average overflow regularly and runoff rain event but do not enters surface water. regularly flood into surface water. 6.03) What type of irrigation Trickle irrigation with in-pot Scheduled overhead Overhead irrigation applied at is used? emitters. irrigation based on crop or a set rate without regard to substrate monitoring. crop need.

NUTRIENTS 6.04) What fertilizers are Controlled-release fertilizers Quick-release fertilizers used used to minimize nutrient or fertigation for in-pot exclusively. No split loss? emitters. applications. 6.05) Is container stock Overhead irrigation with Overhead irrigation with fertigated with overhead fertigation is avoided on fertigation is regularly used sprinklers? containers. on containers. SUBSTRATES 6.06) Is there regular testing Each new load of container Container media are often Container media are not of incoming new container media is regularly tested to tested to ensure that tested. media? ensure that physical and physical and chemical chemical properties are properties are correct. correct. 6.07) How are unwanted Media and organic wastes Media and organic wastes Environmentally safe media and other organic are separated from stored in an unprotected site. disposal demonstrated. wastes disposed? containers and composted Nutrients can leach into the or land applied. Compost ground water or runoff into pile stored in a location surface water. 4 protected from leaching and runoff.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 29 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Nursery Container Management (If containers are not used, skip this section.) RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) FOR MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK SUBSTRATES (CONTINUED) 6.08) Does the nursery The nursery regularly does The nursery occasionally The nursery does not do in- conduct in-house pH and in-house pH and soluble does in-house pH and house pH and soluble salts soluble salts testing of salts testing of container- soluble salts testing of testing of container-grown container-grown plants? grown plants. container-grown plants. plants. SITE 6.09) Is the site designed Site is graded to minimize Some slopes on site. Site has extensive sloping. to minimize runoff? runoff. Drainage areas Impervious surfaces and No collection areas for runoff. collect additional runoff for fields drain toward buffer Extensive impervious areas reuse as irrigation. strips or runoff collection that drain toward surface Impervious surfaces are areas. water. minimized or drain to collection areas. 6.10) How are old or Containers are recycled or Containers are disposed at a Empty and partially filled Evidence that containers unusable plant containers reused appropriately. licensed landfill or stored on containers burned 8 are being managed and trays disposed? site. or disposed of on the farm. properly.

6.11) How is used poly Poly is recycled through a Poly is disposed of in a Poly is burned on site. 8 Evidence of system for from overwintering recycling company or offered licensed land fill or stored on recycling or proper houses disposed? to others for reuse. site. disposal of used poly.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 30 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Other Environmental Risks in the Cropping System RISK QUESTION LOW RISK – 3 MEDIUM RISK – 2 HIGH RISK - 1 RECORDS OR EVIDENCE YOUR (RECOMMENDED) (POTENTIAL HAZARD) (SIGNIFICANT HAZARD) FOR MAEAP VERIFICATION RISK OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS IN THE CROPPING SYSTEM 7.01) Is a live, restricted, Such species is not known Such species is present, Such species is present or prohibited species on to be present. but was not knowingly because it was the land or in the waters introduced, knowingly introduced owned by producer? It was introduced under a without a permit, permit, OR OR It is possessed without 14 It is possessed under a a permit. permit. 7.02) Are there other No risk(s) identified. Risk(s) identified and plan No plan to mitigate No other environmental risks activities, products, to mitigate the contamination risk(s). found at farmstead. processes/equipment, contamination risk(s). services, byproducts, and/or wastes in the cropping areas that pose contamination risks to groundwater or surface water? Nursery Crop and Christmas Tree System Improvement Action Plan

Develop the Nursery Crop and Christmas Tree System Improvement Action Plan for risks beginning on the inside cover of this bulletin. Once the plan has been implemented, you can request MAEAP verification of your Cropping System. Please call the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, MAEAP office at 517-284-5609.

A boxed risk level indicates the level required for environmental assurance verification. Bold Black print indicates a violation of state or federal regulation. 31 Bold Blue Italic print indicates a management practice consistent with 2019 Right to Farm (RTF) Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Table 1. Federal, state and local environmental requirements for operation of this farm business. This table contains the typical requirements for a farm business. There may be additional environmental requirements because of the type of operation and location. Contact the local or state permitting agencies for further information: MDEGLE Environmental Assistance Hotline —1-800-662-9278, and MDARD Information — 1-800- 292-3939.

Environmental Administering Your Expiration Regulatory Description Frequency Agency Date Requirements Private pesticide Any persons using or supervising the use of Restricted-Use Pesticides 3 years MDARD/Pesticide applicator certification (RUP) in the production of an agricultural commodity on their own or their and Plant Pest employer’s land must be certified pesticide applicators. Management Division (PPPM) Pesticide safety training The federal Worker Protection Standard for agricultural pesticides Each employee MDARD/PPPM for pesticide workers requires employers of pesticide handlers and workers to train must be trained employees on pesticide safety. Agricultural employers must be able to every 5 years verify compliance. Farm motor vehicle fuel Fuel storage tanks have to be certified (aboveground) or registered Annual Department of Licensing storage tanks greater (underground); a site plan has to have been submitted to the LARA before and Regulatory Affairs than 1,100-gallon the installation is placed into service. Smaller tanks have other (LARA) capacity (above and requirements to be met. belowground tanks). Air use permit Permit to install and operate equipment or processes that may emit air Before MDEGLE/Air Quality N.A. contaminants (incinerators for burning animal carcasses or manure, and construction Division biodigesters and associated equipment are examples). Groundwater Any discharge of waste or waste effluent into or onto the ground (e.g., egg 5 years MDEGLE/Water discharge permit wash water and milk cooling water [over 10,000 gallons/day] that is Resources Division discharged) and any livestock facility over 5,000 animal units. Water Withdrawal The Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool (WWAT) is designed to estimate the Before water MDEGLE/Water The registration Assessment – new or likely impact of a water withdrawal on nearby streams and rivers. withdrawal Resources Division is valid for 18 increased large quantity Use of the WWAT is required of anyone proposing to make a new or months. withdrawal increased large quantity withdrawal (over 70 gallons per minute) from the waters of the state, including all groundwater and surface water sources, prior to beginning the withdrawal. The WWAT and registration site is www.deq.state.mi.us/wwat. Well permit A person who installs a well, pump or pumping equipment shall Before Local health N.A. comply with applicable laws, regulations, ordinances and codes. construction department Septic permit (house The first step in the process of determining if a piece of land that does not Before Local health N.A. and farm operations) have municipal wastewater services available can be considered for an on- construction department site septic system.

32

Table 1. Federal, state and local environmental requirements for operation of this farm business. (continued)

Your Environmental Administering Expiration Regulatory Requirements Description Frequency Agency Date

Land and water interface Construction activities (dredging, filling, draining, construction, Before MDEGLE/Land and N.A. construction permits structure placement) in, across or under water. construction Water Management Division Soil erosion and Earth change activities within 500 feet of a lake or a stream, or such Before County soil erosion sedimentation control permit activities that will disturb an area greater than 1 acre in size. construction permitting agency

Water use reporting Agricultural water users with the capacity to withdraw surface or Annual MDARD groundwater that exceeds 100,000 gallons per day (70 gallons/minute) are required to report actual water withdrawals annually.

Identification guides for http://mnfi.anr.msu.edu/invasive-species/aquaticsfieldguide.pdf some species regulated by https://mnfi.anr.msu.edu/invasive-species/InvasivePlantsFieldGuide.pdf Part 413. Administering Environmental Guidelines Description Agency Your Expiration Date

Manure management The Michigan Right-to-Farm Act (Act 93 of 1981) requires the establishment of Generally MDARD N.A. Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs). Agricultural producers who voluntarily follow these practices are provided protection from public or private nuisance litigation. The GAAMPs are reviewed annually. The latest GAAMPs can be accessed at: Pesticide utilization and www.michigan.gov/mdard. pest control

Nutrient utilization

Site selection and odor control for new and expanding livestock production facilities

Irrigation water use

Farm market MAEAP verification: MAEAP systems verification is valid (P.A. 1 & 2, 2011) for five years. MAEAP verification in MDARD Livestock, Farmstead, good standing is dependent on following the practices specific to each system, being Cropping and Forest, consistent with the applicable GAAMPs, an annual plan review and update (livestock Wetlands and Habitat system), and updates as necessary as conditions change on the farm. Systems 33

Table 2. Legal citations for environmental risks in Crop◆A◆Syst Nursery Crop and Christmas Tree Producers

Footnote Michigan Law Description 1 Public Health Code, Public Act 368 of 1978 Part 127: Water Supply and Sewer Systems 3 Safe Drinking Water Act, Public Act 399, of 1976 4 Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, Act 451 of 1994 Part 31: Water Resources Protection 6 Part 83: Pesticide Control 8 Part 115: Solid Waste Management 13 Part 327: Great Lakes Preservation 14 Part 413: Wildlife Conservation 15 Insect Pest and Plant Disease Act, Act 189 of 1931

16 Fire Prevention Code PA 207 of 1941 Storage and handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids Federal Law 17 Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) 19 Worker Protection Standard for Agricultural Pesticides

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CONTACT SALUTA EMA FIRST MR LAST FARM CONTACT SA OWN EMA F MR DESCR EXTENSION: BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS LAS (MA (M (MAI (MAILING) (MAILING) SECTION: STATE: { { FARM FAR FARM FAR FAR FAR FAR FAR LA (M (MAI (MA ( ( IRST ADDIT If I MAILING) MAILING) I f N L L AILING) NAME: no the T T AI MANAGER U AME: ADDR or ITUDE: ILING T M M M M M M I I LI T NAME: L p E LING) LING LI r ION: NAME: e ATION: hy I NG) RS ADDRESS: ROLE PTION: SITE SITE SITE SITE SI MAILING or INFORMA NG) NAME: I is M ONAL s TE _ i n ca ------E ) CONTACT MRS _____ ADDRESS ROLE: OWNER I W NAM PHONE: ) o C SS: (Circle C STATE: STREET: ZIP ______P.O. l CITY: STATE STREE ZIP P.O. STREE TOWNSHIP: Z COUNTY: CITY: ______mai HI I add : EB MRS T ______I P ______(Ci Y: ______GAN NO CODE: lbo CODE: CO E: ress CODE: S BOX: BOX: ______rcle o ADDRESS: I ______T TE: TE x T : T one) r IO NTACT ______, NAM at : ______or (ONLY ADDRESS: plea S INFORMATION INFORMATION N one) the ______MS se ______E: farm MS _ use IN ) ------(Mailing FORM s Sec _ it ______e ti TIER: loc on, A atio _ _ (Ma T T Address _ ow ____ ION n or n i n ship, n Office o LONG t a p t May Range, l ace or I Vary) TUDE: _ and that Home H MOBILE/CELL (MAILING) (MAILING) (MAILING) (MAILING) {MAILING) RANGE: L r OM atitu ece ______(MAI (MAI ( ( { HOME MOBILE/CEL MA MA MA Address i ves E d e PHONE I I I and mai LING LING LING) LING LING ____ PHONE STA STREET: ZIP P.O. CITY: l. L ) ) ongi ) ) ) ) NUMBER: CODE: S S Z P.O CITY: TE NUMB BOX: T T I t L P u A REET : NUMBER: de . CODE: T NU BOX: ______E ) : ______ER M : ______: BER: __ -- ______- __ _ _ _ . ______

35

Grade Grade Cover Conservation Conservation CNMP CNMP CNMP Cover CROPPING Silage Irrigation Irrigation Is Fertilizer Fertilizer Fertilizer Fuel Farmstead Pesticide No Date Pesticide Manure Manure Manure Manure Manure Manure Manure Manure Manure Manure Manure Manure Manure NMP Pesticide No Name Livestock Milkhou Buffer LIVESTOCK Buffer EHS FARMSTEAD

there Till Till Threshold: Storage: of (Acres): Crops Crops Pad of Stabilization Stabilization Strips Strips Written (Acres) Re (Acres): (Acres): CNMP Evidence s Sold Applied Applied Applied P N Manifest Produced P N Purchased K K e Farm(s) v Applied (Acres): Applied Storage: Storage: Applied Applied Exclusion (Acres): (Acres): (Lbs/Year): (Lbs/Year): (Lbs/Year): (Lbs/Year): iewed (Lbs/Year): (Lbs/Year): (A Discharge Wells (Acres): (Acres): c (Linear (Linear (Gallons/Year): ___ Tillage (Gallons) Tillage : re Approval: ______By: s (Acres): (Gallons/Year): (Acres): ): By: (each): Covered Yes e (Acres): of (Acres): (Acres): ______(Gallons) (Gallons) d (Gallons/Year) ______(Gallons/Year): (Each) (Each): (Linear Discharge: Feet): Feet): (G ______(Acres): (Acres): (Gallons/year): ______a or ____ llons/Year): ______: ______In ______Feet): No ______CNMP: ______FARM ______: ______Yes ______(Pounds) ______(Pound _____ (Pounds) _ NAME: ______or _ _ _ s _ ___ ) ______No ______Wetland Annual FOREST, Greenhouse Greenhouse Grassland Grade Conservation GREENHOUSE Irrigation Fertilizer Forestland Fertilizer Fuel Pesticide Notes: NMP Date Date Restored/Improved Plan Plan Pesticide Restored Buffer/Filter Length Managed Management No Manure Land EHS Till Threshold: Storage: Type: Writer: Plan Plan Management (Square ______Stabilization (Square of Cover Applied WETLANDS, (Acres) Capacity: Applied Capacity: Applied Non (Square Streambank as Written: Expires: (Acres) (Acres): ------Wells Buffers Strips Size Forest Tillage (Gallons) - Feet): Crop for Wetland Feet): ______(Square (Square Invasive (Square (Square _____ Feet): ------______(Each) Yes (Square (Gallons) (Gallons) (Square Plan (Square ___ Wetland (Acres): (Square _ __ AND s ____ Wetland /Shorelines Habitat (Acres) ___ Feet): _____ Feet): or Feet): Feet): Species HABITAT Feet): Feet): Feet) ______Feet): _ Habitat ___ No (Acres): ______(Pounds) : ______(Acre (Pounds) (Pounds) (Feet): ___ Habitat (Acres): _ s ______): ______All _ _ _ Three ______36

Notes:

Farm Name: ______

37

Notes:

Farm Name: ______

38

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