CROP*A*Syst A confidential, voluntary risk assessment of field- based management practices

Links two environmental programs

Same recommendations MGSP groundwater protection MAEAP environmental assurance Michigan Right to Farm guidelines MSU Extension and NRCS Industry supported practices

Farm*A*Syst vs. Crop*A*Syst Farm Headquarters Field-based activities

Crop*A*Syst Based on… Right to Farm guidelines State and Federal environmental laws Consistency among MAEAP system Applies to all cropping systems Crop specific management practices +

Crop*A*Syst Now available Field crops Corn Soybeans Wheat Sugar beets Vegetables Nursery crops and Christmas trees Tree and Small fruit Greenhouse

Why do a Crop*A*Syst? Your family & neighbor’s health Protect farm value Demonstrate good stewardship Foster positive community and neighbor relationships “Good faith effort” liability protection MGSP cost-share and incentive payment CSP readiness - records

Format Risk questions & answers Answers classified… Low – Medium – High Risks Conformance with RTF guidelines Illegal practices Required level for MAEAP verification

Example risk question How often are fields tested for nutrient levels?

Example answers

Records needed for verification Field names or maps Acres in cropped portions of the fields Up-to-date soil test reports Or, a schedule to bring all test up-to- date.

CROP*A*Syst Contents Nutrient management General mgt practices Nitrogen Phosphorus Manure Bio-solids Soil and water conservation Environmentally sensitive areas

Contents (continued) Pest management General pest mgt practices Pesticide application Water use Crop specific management practices Corn Soybeans and alfalfa Wheat Potato Sugar beet Vegetables Pasture Management Irrigation management Other environmental risks

Cropping System Improvement Action Plan Identified high or medium risk practices Planned lower risk management practices Timelines Immediately Future

Crop*A*Syst risk questions 2-4 hours depending on complexity of farm Implementation schedule Additional time to assemble/review records Any record system okay

Re-certification Credits 4 credits Completed with a trained individual  Groundwater Technician Private or commercial pesticide applicator 12 re-certification credits (private) required in 3 years

Cropping System verification

To get started… Contact your Groundwater Technician Conservation District MSU Extension