Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program

The Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program (MGSP) is designed to reduce the risks of groundwater contamination associated with 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 .

1. Confidential assistance in identifying and minimizing on Farm risks to groundwater through the storage and application of pesticides, fertilizers and manures.

2. Assistance in obtaining MAEAP (Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program) verification.

3. Emergency Plan & Emergency Tubes for storing directions in the event of an on farm emergency.

4. 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 on MGSP practices.

5. 9 RUP credits can be obtained by completing bulletins with a Groundwater Technician.

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 on MGSP practices.

For more information regarding the Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program, contact Amy Gillhouse, Groundwater Technician at the Monroe Conservation District office 734-241-7755 Ext 3 or the Lenawee Conservation Distict office 517-263-7400  Ext. 117, or E-mail  to amy.gillhouse@mi.nacdnet.net

Also read Amy's report: Choosing to Close an Abandoned Well

Michigan Groundwater Stewardship AmeriCorps Program

As of September 30, 2008 the AmeriCorps Groundwater Program came to an end and will transition to a web-based system for delivering residential groundwater assistance. The change was made to allow more residents the opportunity to access MGS Presidential tools than the AmeriCorps delivery system. Home*A*Syst, Lawn*A*Syst, and Lake*A*Syst publications are still available by contacting the District office at (734) 241-7755 ext. 3 to request a copy.

All Conservation District programs and services are offered on a non-discrimination basis without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status or handicap.