News
Western United Dairymen and partner to Fund Waste Management Plans( and Water Quality Improvements

July 31, 2009 – Western United Dairymen (WUD) and the USDA's Natural
Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) are partnering in a new project
to support dairy producers in the Central Valley in developing Waste
Management Plans (WMPs) and improving water quality protection on their
farms.

July 31, 2009 – Western United Dairymen (WUD) and the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) are partnering in a new project to support dairy producers in the Central Valley in developing Waste Management Plans (WMPs) and improving water quality protection on their farms. WUD, NRCS, dairy farmers, and California Registered Professionals will work together to comply with the regulations of the Waste Discharge Requirement's General Order for Existing Milk Cow Dairies as adopted by the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board. All producers in the Central Valley, regardless of affiliation, are eligible to apply. 

The Central Valley General Order for Existing Milk Cow Dairies requires that “the portions of the WMP that are related to facility and design specifications (items II and III) must be prepared by, or under the responsible charge of, and certified by a civil engineer who is registered pursuant to California law or other person as may be permitted under the provisions of the California Business and Professions Code to assume responsible charge of such work.” 

A successful applicant will receive funds to hire and work with a California Registered Professional to prepare a Waste Management Plan for their dairy. There is $1,200,000 in funding currently available. Projects to improve manure management are also eligible for funding.

This partnership project is funded through the Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative (CCPI), a new program established in the 2008 Farm Bill, and will be administered by NRCS through the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP.) 
The application period will end close of business July 31, 2009. To file an application, contact your local NRCS office. Appointments are advised. If you have questions about the program, contact the local NRCS office, or contact WUD staff: Paul Martin at (707) 763-8874, Paul Sousa at (209) 527-6453, or the WUD field representative in your area.

WUD is a voluntary membership organization representing more than 60% of the milk produced in California. Membership benefits include resources in labor law, environmental regulations and pricing issues. Members decide the direction of state and federal legislative efforts affecting the dairy industry.