Why is the Ministry of the Environment conducting on-farm nutrient management inspections?
MOE leads the regulation of the potential impacts of farm activities on drinking water sources. MOE also has the responsibility for conducting inspections of farms for compliance with the Nutrient Management Act. MOE has worked closely with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) and the Ontario Farm Environmental Coalition (OFEC) to develop an inspection program that protects the environment and is respectful of the farming community. The purpose of the Nutrient Management Act, 2002 (NMA) is to provide for the management of materials containing nutrients in ways that will enhance protection of the natural environment and provide a sustainable future for agricultural operations and rural development. Regulations under the NMA require farms that are “phased-in” to manage their operations in accordance with a Nutrient Management Strategy (NMS) and, if necessary a Nutrient Management Plan (NMP), which includes regulated standards and responsibilities. An Agri
