The annual review period for the proposed drafts of the 2021 Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices is underway, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Comments will be accepted via email, mail and a virtual public meeting that is scheduled for Oct. 1. 

The GAAMPs are reviewed each year by committees comprised of various experts. They are revised or updated, as necessary. All proposed GAAMPs changes are reviewed and approved by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Public comment will be taken on proposed changes to the following GAAMPs: Manure Management and Utilization; Care of Farm Animals; Site Selection and Odor Control for New and Expanding Livestock Facilities; and Farm Markets.

The GAAMPs regarding Pesticide Utilization and Pest Control; Nutrient Utilization; Cranberry Production; and Irrigation Water Use have no proposed changes for 2021.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will forward all comments received by the due date to the respective GAAMPs Task Force Committee chairpeople for consideration before the final review and presentation to the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development at the Nov. 5 meeting.

The proposed draft GAAMPs will be available for public review and comment until 5 p.m. Oct. 7 at Michigan.gov/RighttoFarm. Comments are accepted by:

For a copy of any of these GAAMPs, including the proposed revisions, visit Michigan.gov/RighttoFarm or contact the MDARD’s Environmental Stewardship Division at 517-284-5619.

Source: MDARD, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.