MAEAP
WHAT IS MAEAP?
The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program, commonly known as MAEAP, is a voluntary program to help landowners assess soil and water quality risks on their properties. Originally geared towards supporting farmers, MAEAP has expanded to offer technical assistance to forest, wetland, and wildlife habitat properties as well.
MAEAP is 100% confidential, non-regulatory, and voluntary. Landowners are in the drivers seat of their MAEAP track.
Incentives for participating in the MAEAP program include:
Discounts from select equipment, insurance, and fuel suppliers
Free educational opportunities
Special support in case of environmental emergencies
Opportunities for cost-share funds from the Ionia Conservation District for things like chemical spill kits, concrete pads for fuel and chemical loading areas, soil and water tests, etc.
Additionally, landowners receive a sign that can be proudly displayed to show dedication to environmental stewardship. The MAEAP sign confirms to passersby that your farm or forest is properly managed, and also brings a great positive reaction from consumers and the public.
Click here to see the MAEAP incentives offered by Michigan Farm Bureau and other supporters.
MAEAP is open to any Michigan landowner and is not limited by size or practices.
There are four categories of recognition: 1) Cropping, 2) Livestock, 3) Farmstead, and 4) Forest, Wetlands, and Habitat.
HOW TO GET STARTED
Attend a MAEAP-supported educational event to learn about new and improving practices in agriculture and conservation.
STEP 1: EDUCATION
STEP 2: RISK ASSESSMENT
Your local MAEAP Technician will visit your farm, and evaluate any potential existing risks to soil and water quality on your property. This visit is 100% confidential, non-regulatory, and free. The technician may provide support in addressing any risks found.
STEP 3: VERIFICATION
An MDARD representative will come to your farm (upon invitation only) to confirm that any identified risks have been addressed, and provides technical assistance for any additional concerns.
VERIFICATION SYSTEMS
FARMSTEAD
The Farmstead verification is a combination of cropping and livestock with a focus on whole-farm systems. This is ideal for farms that integrate their livestock and crop management.
Click here to learn more about the MAEAP Farmstead System.
CROPPING
The Cropping verification covers all crop production including greenhouse, row crops, hay and forage, floral, orchards, urban farms, etc.
Click here to learn more about the MAEAP Cropping System.
LIVESTOCK
Any size livestock farm is welcome to undergo the MAEAP process, from small backyard sheep flocks to CAFO-sized operations.
Click here to learn more about the MAEAP Livestock System.
FOREST, WETLAND & HABITAT
This is for non-ag landowners who participate in forest management, as well as those who want to conserve valuable Michigan woods and waters by maintaining precious habitat and wetland space.
Click here to learn more about the MAEAP FWH System.