Water Quality
Issue
Farmers have long understood there is responsibility in caring for our environmental resources. With such close proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, additional measures are taken for environmental stewardship.
Background
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established pollution load limits, also known as the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), in 2010 to reduce excess pollution running into the Chesapeake Bay – with goals that must be met by 2025.
In response to the TMDL, Watershed Implementation Plans (WIPs) were developed as blueprints for Bay restoration. Maryland Farm Bureau worked closely with the Maryland Department of Agriculture to ensure the development of a “fair” phase III Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) for agriculture that does not unfairly burden farmers.
Position
Maryland Farm Bureau supports the efforts to restore the health of the Chesapeake Bay and encourages farmers to utilize Best Management Practices to aid those efforts. We oppose regulations that put farmers who live in the Chesapeake Bay watershed at a competitive disadvantage.
Additional Resources
Phase III Watershed Implementation Plan
Nutrient Stewardship
Soil Health Partnership
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