How do you help me?

Since September 2002, the ACT Program has been offering non-regulatory conservation planning assistance to animal feeding operations (AFOs) throughout Arizona. In cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture - Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) the CNMP Assistance Program works with operators to develop comprehensive nutrient management plans (CNMPs). Per local, state and federal regulations, CNMPs may be required by many of Arizona’s AFOs. 

What is a CNMP?

A CNMP is a conservation plan unique to AFOs. It combines management activities, conservation practices and facility design which, when implemented, help to ensure that production and natural resource protection goals are achieved. The goal of a CNMP is to reduce transport of excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus to ground and surface water and prevent resource degradation. A CNMP designed specifically for your operation will address the following:

• Manure and wastewater handling and storage
• Nutrient management
• Land treatment practices
• Feed management
• Record keeping
• Other manure and wastewater utilization options

Does My Operation Need a CNMP?

If your AFO qualifies as a large concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO), the answer may be yes. According to State law, CAFOs must receive authorization to operate by obtaining an Arizona Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (AZPDES) CAFO General Permit #AZG2004-002. The AZPDES Permit limits discharges from CAFOs and requires the development of a nutrient management plan (NMP) by a Certified Nutrient Management Planning Specialist. In addition to meeting NRCS standards, CNMPs developed by the CNMP Assistance Program fulfill this requirement.

Qualifying CAFOs are required to obtain Permit coverage by submitting a Notice of Intent to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) no later than February 13, 2006. The Permit also requires complete development and implementation of an NMP by December 31, 2006.

Besides complying with the AZPDES Permit, AFOs may need an NMP for the following reasons: the operation is applying for and/or receiving cost-share assistance from NRCS; the operation is seeking and/or receiving funding from the Farm Service Agency or other lender; or if ADEQ designates the operation as a CAFO, therefore requiring it to obtain an AZPDES Permit.

Where can I get more information?

Contact NRCS at (602) 280-8801 for more information regarding available cost-share assistance.

If you would like to apply for an AZPDES Permit or have questions regarding other water-quality regulations, contact ADEQ at (602) 771-4651.

To request a free consultation visit to determine if your operation needs an AZPDES Permit, or if you would like CNMP development assistance, contact the ACT Program at (602) 542-0137 or (800) 294-0308.

Agricultural Consultation and Training
1688 West Adams Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007

fax (602) 364-0830
act@azda.gov