Changes to state and federal air quality standards and lawsuits driven by environmental groups impact farms by forcing the development of regulation and law in the absence of sound science. We insist government air quality policies be based on sound science and consider economic impact.
Federal and state air quality standards for ozone, particulate matter (dust), nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and others consider agricultural practices such as livestock production facilities, fuel combustion, diesel emissions, and dust from soil tillage, crop harvesting, grain mills, grain elevators and value-added processing plants as potential sources of air quality concerns.
We urge Michigan Farm Bureau to seek out major university research on agricultural air quality standards and best management practices. We urge MFB to work with the Environmental Protection Agency to recognize normal agricultural production practices and the associated air particulate generated.
We support:
MFB educating members on air quality and how this issue impacts members and Michigan agriculture.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development as lead agency for all agricultural air quality concerns.
The Michigan Right to Farm Act as the primary means for farmers to address air quality concerns. Regulatory provisions exempting farmers who conform to Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices from nuisance regulation must remain in law.
A scientific, practice-based approach to meet air quality objectives.
Re-evaluation of emissions standards for farm and ranch equipment and other non-highway use machinery.
We oppose:
Air emission permits for agriculture more stringent than federal rules and regulations and not science or practice-based.
Applying air quality regulations to areas of Michigan that are not pollution sources. Pollutants measured in areas of Michigan not meeting air quality standards may originate in urban/industrial settings far removed from the monitored area. Air quality concerns should be addressed at their source.
Enforcing air quality standards for ozone and particulate matter on farms and agricultural businesses voluntarily implementing effective environmental conservation practices.
Further emission control requirements for agricultural equipment and practices.
Any ban on the burning of biodegradable household waste.