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We are part of the effort to keep our water clean.

Information for the Agricultural Sector

Exclude Livestock from Direct Stream Access

Install livestock exclusion fences or take other measures to prevent livestock from having direct access to streams, ditches, County drains, and riparian areas.  The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program recommends keeping livestock more than 300 feet from surface water. In addition they recommend providing stormwater runoff control to prevent runoff from livestock lots from directly discharging into surface water or groundwater. 

Install Conservation Buffers along Waterways

Install filter strips, riparian buffer strips, grassed waterways, and similar conservation measures between agricultural lots and streams, ditches, and drains to protect water quality. The Natural Resources Conservation Service states that, if installed and maintained properly, conservation buffers can reduce the amount of nutrients, pesticides, sediment, and pathogens that reach the surface water.  They suggest buffers of 2.5 times the full width of the stream or 35 feet from a body of water.  More information and information about financial incentives are available on the right side of this page.

Participate in the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program

Consider becoming verified through the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program or adopting their practices. The program provides assistance for farms of all types and commodities to prevent or minimize pollution risks from agricultural practices. More information is available here on the right hand side of this page.