AEM Program
AEM is an important state and local program to assist farmers in their environmental stewardship efforts. It helps protect the quality of their farms’ natural resources, which are the foundation of their long-term economic viability, and also that of Schuyler County. Farming in Schuyler County is a very important industry not only to the local economy but also because it helps protect open space and our natural resources.
A five-year strategic plan (2005-2010) was developed by an AEM advisory committee made of farmers and local agencies that work with farmers. Vision and mission statements were developed to guide the process of a more coordinated approach to AEM in Schuyler County.
Mission Statement: Protect and enhance the quality of soils, surface and groundwater, air and wildlife habitats while increasing the economic viability of Schuyler County’s agriculture industry, helping to improve the quality of life for all Schuyler County residents and visitors.
Vision Statement: AEM in Schuyler County is an important and widely recognized program to address natural resource concerns on farms of all sizes and products. Through voluntary actions, incentives, local leadership, and teamwork, Schuyler County farms and agencies will cost effectively address all natural resource concerns on the farm as prioritized through a watershed approach.
The goals for the first year of the program are to inventory current activities, future plans, and potential environmental concerns on Schuyler County farms through what is called a Tier 1 survey. This survey was mailed to over 400 farmers and follow-up will occur in the beginning of 2006. More in-depth surveys, referred to as Tier 2’s, will also be conducted on many farms. Tier 2’s have been done on approximately 40 Schuyler County farms in the past and some of these will be updated. Another important aspect of the local AEM program is to remind non-farmers in the county about the unique benefits that farming provides to our community.
Participation in this program is voluntary and all information is kept confidential, but future participation in state funding opportunities requires participation in AEM. For more information on AEM, contact the District.
Links
AEM |
