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2008 Policy Book
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Changes to federal air quality standards are forcing change in Michigan air quality regulations that impact farms. In addition to changes in standards, lawsuits driven by environmental groups continue to force the development of regulation and law in the absence of sound science. We insist that government air quality policies be based on sound science and consider economic impact.
Agricultural practices such as livestock production facilities, fuel combustion sources, diesel emissions, and dust from soil tillage, crop harvesting, grain mills, grain elevators and value-added processing plants are looked at as potential sources of air quality concerns. Federal and state air quality standards may focus on ozone, particulate matter (dust), nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and others.
We support:
- Michigan Farm Bureau taking an active role to involve members in air quality education and how this issue will impact members and all of Michigan agriculture.
- The Michigan Right to Farm Act as the primary means for farmers to address air quality concerns. Regulatory provisions that exempt farmers from nuisance regulation, if they conform to GAAMPs, must remain in law.
- A scientific, practice-based approach to meet air quality objectives.
We oppose:
- Air quality standards unless scientifically justified.
- The application of air quality regulation to areas of Michigan that are not the sources of the pollutants. Pollutants measured in areas of Michigan that do not meet air quality standards may have originated in urban/industrial settings far removed from the monitored area. Air quality concerns should be addressed at their source.
- Mandatory air quality standards for ozone and particulate matter on farms and agricultural businesses that voluntarily conduct effective environmental conservation practices.
- Further emission control requirements for agricultural equipment and practices.
- Air permits for farms that are not science or practice-based.
We urge MFB to seek out the findings of major universities researching agricultural air quality standards and best management practices. We urge Farm Bureau to work with the EPA to recognize normal agricultural production practices and the associated air particulate generated.
