Am I maintaining a nutrient management plan?
Creating a Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) is one of the principle responsibilities for ensuring the environmental sustainability of your operation. As discussed in the What do I need to consider when communicating with regulators?, a NMP defines the practices and procedures necessary to sustainably manage the animal manure produced on your operation. NMPs are regulated by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy as outlined in Title 130 of the Nebraska Administrative Code.
Socially and environmentally responsible farmers will work diligently to follow the guidance and schedules submitted in their NMP. The goal of those regulations is to protect the environment. This is a crucial aspect for relations with your neighbors and local community who will be most impacted by nutrient imbalances in local surface or groundwater sources. Following all the guidelines described in the NMP, following advice from your nutrient management advisor, and being prepared for any environmental emergency will be much appreciated in your community!
Resources
Nutrient management recordkeeping calendar, a resource from Nebraska Extension
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