Knowing a wetland when you see it doesn't matter where legal definitions are involved. A recent Supreme Court decision still has not defined "navigable waters" or a "significant nexus," which leaves farmers near wetlands wondering about the status of ditches and low spots in fields. Local courts will have to decide.
Clean Water Act muddy after court ruling
The case of John A. Rapanos vs. the United States clarified nothing for farmers who thought the court would finally bring some sense to an act that has been interpreted one way by regulators and another way by farmers and developers convinced that common sense long ago washed down the river. Click here for full story.Canada opens border broader
Canada is opening its border to a broader range of animals and animal products from the United States that were suspended following the confirmation of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in Washington in 2003. Click here for full story.Renewable fuels legislation becomes law
A package of bills that will encourage alternative energy and spur economic vitality in Michigan agriculture has cleared the final hurdles in the legislature and was signed by Governor Jennifer Granholm into law. Click here for full story.Michigan Farm News named best FB newspaper in nation
For the first time in the history of the American Farm Bureau Federation Information Awards contest, the Michigan Farm News has earned the title of "Best Statewide Publication" among state Farm Bureaus of similar size. Click here for full story.Work left undone
On May 7, the Michigan FFA state officers traveled to Gulfport, Mississippi with one mission: To serve those people devastated by Hurricane Katrina. They expected to see the south completely renovated. They expected homes to be fully restored, smiles among local residents, and only a handful of people suffering. They did not get what they expected. Click here for full story.Forestry resources
There are a number of good sources of forestry information and technical assistance available for Michigan forest landowners. Click here for full story.Why should you manage your woodlot?
As a woodlot owner, you probably use your woodlot for a mix of purposes, both tangible and intangible. Many people own forests for their own enjoyment - hunting, bird watching or simply walking in the woods. Some hope to reap financial benefits from timber sales or maple syrup production, or even miscellaneous products. Others simply want to be good stewards of the land and to leave a legacy for future generations. You can enhance all of these purposes with proper forest management. Click here for full story.