VAAFM released second draft of RAP’s for public review (2-23-16)

Today, the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) has released a second draft of the Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) for public review.  This draft, to be presented to the legislature and the public over the coming weeks, has been substantially revised to incorporate public input.  The second draft is available today on the Agency website: http://agriculture.vermont.gov/water-quality/regulations/rap

“Significant changes have been made throughout the second draft of the RAPs.  We began by revising and reformatting the RAPs, in an effort to provide clarity.”  Leland continues, “In addition, three areas which received the most extensive public comment and have been revised from the first draft include: the small farm certification threshold, proposed standards around manure stacking sites, and proposed manure spreading restrictions on steep slopes and high phosphorus fields.”  Leland continues, “Be sure to read the responsiveness summary we’ve provided which highlights 30 major changes in the second draft of the RAPs which resulted from public input.”