Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program

The Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program (MGSP) is designed to reduce the risks of groundwater contamination associated wit the use of pesticides and nitrogen fertilizers. The MGSP is voluntary, locally driven and designed to address the concerns of individuals by maintaining a focus on the financial and technical constraints which drive real world decisions.

The program is funded through fees that are assessed on sales of pesticides and nitrogen fertilizers.

There are 3 major benefits to participating in the Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program.

A free on farm assessment of groundwater contamination risk. This is done through a series of fact sheets and work sheets called Farm-A-Syst. (FAS)

• The whole process is confidential and the FAS book stays on the farm. Certified pesticide applicators can earn up to 6 renewal credits by completing a Farm-A-Syst.
  
  
• Emergency Plan Tubes for storing directions in case of an accidental or natural disaster and Anti-Backflow Devices - free to participants.

Cost Share - Once a farmer completes a FAS and decides to make changes to reduce the risk of groundwater contamination on his farm he is eligible to apply for cost share.

The groundwater program technician services Lenawee, Monroe and Washtenaw counties and is housed in Lenawee Conservation District, located at
1100 Sutton Rd.
Adrian, MI 49221
FAX to: 517-265-9121

Or you can contact the Groundwater Stewardship Program technician for Lenawee, Monroe, and Washtenaw via email at:

Amy.Gilhouse@mi.nacdnet.net