Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program
The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) is a proactive program that helps farms minimize agricultural pollution risks.  The MAEAP Program is a three phase program:  Education, On Farm Risk Assessment, and Third Party Verification.  Once a farm has completed all three phases they are eligible for a sign recognizing their achievements and their outstanding environmental stewardship.
Programs Offered: 
Farm*A*Syst.
  • Evaluates your farmstead using a series of risk assessment questions.  Also assures a farms compliance with Michigan farming laws and helps provide groundwater and surface water protection.
Crop*A*Syst.
  • Focuses on environmental issues related to your field practices.  Specialized risk assessment for nurseries, greenhouse, row crops, vegetables, Christmas trees, orchards and more!
Livestock*A*Syst.
  • Assessment tool designed to address environmental issues associated with livestock production.
Habitat*A*Syst.
  • A program to help Michigan citizens better understand, plan, manage, protect and utilize their forest resources.
Program Benefits:
  • RUP Credits
  • Insurance Discounts
  • Improved neighbor relations
  • Right To Farm Protection
  • Emergency Plans developed to  protect your family
  • Much More!

For more information please go to MAEAP.org
Luke Cotton is the MAEAP Technician for Newaygo and Muskegon Counties. 

Contact him for more information:
Phone: 231-225-3185
Email: lucas.cotton@mi.nacdnet.net
"There are no fees associated with any part of the process.  My time is to the producer and the verification is free.  The only things that would cost them money are the changes they would elect to make to bring their operation in line with MAEAP standards (GAAMPS). Once you begin working with MAEAP you may have additional access to some federal funds based on a case to case basis."
"I spend time in the field with farmers helping them to meet their goals while protecting the Natural Resources that are a critical part of a successful agricultural future in this country.  I love to help people, I have told so many of the producers I have worked with already, I am happy to roll up my sleeves and do anything for them that I can."