The 'potential to discharge' is one of the sticking points that caused a group of farmers and farm organizations - including Michigan Farm Bureau - to request a declaratory ruling from Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Director Steve Chester that clarifies his contention that permits can be required for livestock farms that have not polluted surface water. The groups believe the DEQ has no authority under state or federal law to require federal permits to discharge for farms with clean environmental records.
DEQ oversteps permitting bounds, farm groups say
Now that the deadline has come and gone for farmers who, by virtue of their farm size alone, have been forced by Michigan's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to apply for a federal permit, the question remains: Does the law require a permit? Click here for full story.Miracle of Life changes buildings at State Fair
In 2006, the Miracle of Life exhibit at the Michigan State Fair brought Michigan agriculture to life for more than 272,000 fair patrons as visitors witnessed the births of hundreds of farm animals. Click here for full story.Michigan requests aid for spring freeze
Michigan's office of the USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA) has taken the first step toward disaster aid for state farmers who lost or will lose fruit and vegetable production due to frost and freezes from April 4 to June 13. Click here for full story.Michigan earns national recognition for food safety
The Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) and Michigan State Police (MSP) Traffic Safety Division received national attention for their contribution to food safety through the Multi-State Food Safety and Food Security Transportation Project Group. The Food and Drug Administration presented its annual Leveraging/Collaboration Award to the Michigan-led group for their outstanding planning, teamwork, and initiative-taking. Click here for full story.MAEAP package explained
A quick overview of the bills in the MAEAP package. Click here for full story.