Preventing agricultural pollution in the US: The Farm A Syst Program
1998
Nevers, E. | Castelnuovo, R. | Jackson, G. (National Farm A Syst Programs, Madison-Wisconsin (USA)) | Moreau, R. (University of Wisconsin, Madison-Wisconsin (USA). Dept. of Agricultural and Applied Economics)
This paper discusses the role of "pollution prevention" as a strategy to address agricultural threats to groundwater. Pollution prevention is defined and the benefits are outlined. Pollution prevention practices for agriculture are identified and general examples for farms and ranches are given. A United States program, the National Farm Assessment System (Farm A Syst), is then examined and discussed in more detail. Farm A Syst is a voluntary program that helps to prevent groundwater and surface water contamination by a variety of farm activities. This unique assessment process translates complex environmental, geophysical, and technical information into a usable format that allows farmers to evaluate a wide range of potential contaminants on their farm. Particular attention is paid to protecting private drinking water wells. Assessment materials incorporate information on relevant regulations, improved management practices, current technologies, and recommended structures and practices. A Spanish language version is now available. The program has also been adapted for use in five Canadian provinces. Multi-agency support, combined with private sector partnerships and flexible program delivery, has proven most effective. Evaluation results indicate that farmers like and use this program. An ongoing cost-benefit study indicates that it is also cost-effective. Pollution prevention programs can reduce or eliminate farm threats to groundwater by educating farmers, identifying potential contaminants, and changing behaviours and practices. Pollution prevention improves pollution control strategies and costs less than remedial.
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