| Fact Sheets for Farmers
 |
CNMP Success Story
The real value of a CNMP was vividly demonstrated in 2006 on a farm near
Hillsboro in Vernon County. A hose clamp failed as the manure storage
structure for the 500-cow herd was being pumped out and applied to the
field. About 4,000 gallons spilled into the field. The farmer was able
to react very quickly and followed the emergency actions outlined in his
CNMP. Due to his quick response, only about 800 gallons may have reached
the stream, the South Branch Creek of the Baraboo River in the Hillsboro
watershed. The stream is expected to recover according to Wisconsin Dept.
of Natural Resources. “We have been working with Discovery Farms over
the past year towards completing this CNMP and as a result the recommended
actions described in the Emergency Action Plan were really very fresh in
my memory,” said the farmer. “Having the list of phone numbers for
emergency contacts, contractors, agencies is very useful. We are having
the lists laminated and placing them in several places around the farm,”
he said. “We have several employees who would typically realize what to
do in case of emergency, but having the Emergency Action Plan and the
contact numbers close by is really necessary if quick action is needed.”
Due to a recent manure storage expansion, he was required to develop a
nutrient management plan to meet Vernon County’s Manure Storage Ordinance.
However, he voluntarily chose to develop the complete CNMP to help him
better manage his dairy operation. A fact sheet is available from NRCS,
“Why Farmers
are Choosing CNMPs” which discusses other reasons to develop a CNMP,
including regulations, legal liability, insurance, safety, and improved
management. |
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