FORBES ROAD, Pa. — Beginning farmers in Pennsylvania have a vast array of local, state, and federal agencies to help them succeed in agriculture—but even some more experienced farmers don’t know what they don’t know regarding regulations until a misstep has occurred. The PA Veteran Farming Project is hosting a free web meeting Tuesday, May 12 at 7 pm with guest Dan Griffith, Nutrient Management Specialist & Agriculture Technician at the Westmoreland Conservation District to help.
The web meeting is free, but you must register at https://forms.gle/fE4BYmEMksx92DCC8 no later than noon on May 12.
Mr. Griffith will provide information on the two types of plans PA requires–Manure and “Ag E&S” (agricultural erosion and sedimentation). Participants will learn which farms need the plans under which circumstances, who to contact for assistance, and how having these plans helps if someone lodges a complaint. Additionally, livestock mortality and disposal methods, the Ag Ombudsman program, and farm sales regulations are on the agenda.
Conservation districts in Pennsylvania are ‘the farmer’s friend’. Their technical staff members work with the public to protect and maintain clean water and healthy soil. Technicians advise on agricultural issues such as manure management or soil erosion and sedimentation controls, as well as conservation practices like no-till. They work hand in hand with NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) staff in helping landowners access and install conservation best management practices.
This program is funded by the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagements 2501 Grant Program.
For more information or with questions, email pavetsfarm@gmail.com or call 724-691-1087.
–Mimi Thomas-Brooker, PA Veteran Farming Project