Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP)

10/07/2026

Have you ever seen this sign? ​

It’s the mark of a farmer who’s verified in the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) Farmstead System. ​

The MAEAP Farmstead System looks at activities performed on the entire farm with a focus on protecting surface and groundwater. Michigan farms of all sizes and types can connect with their local conservation districts to learn more about the verification process. ​

What do the farms get out of the arrangement? Preferred consideration for technical assistance, help finding cost-share and recognition as leading stewards of our natural resources. ​

Good for the environment, good for farmers, and good for communities. That's the MAEAP promise. ​

Want to know more? Visit https://go.mi.gov/i599f3357

10/05/2026

With more than 20 years of experience, Steve Schaub is a leader of the pack when it comes to conservation!​

Area of Service: Tuscola County​

Background: Steve worked in the landscape and horticulture industry for several years before becoming the Tuscola Conservation District Conservation Technician (a title that has changed over the years) in 2007. He also serves as a Board of Directors for the Lapeer Conservation District. ​

Fun Fact: Steve worked as a wolf tracker for the Wisconsin DNR. He logged miles through remote areas of northern Wisconsin along the U.P. border during winter wolf and carnivore population counts.

10/02/2026

09/30/2026

Fall harvest is one of the busiest times of the year, and it can be all too easy to overlook routine stewardship practices. ​

As you continue with this year's harvest, remember to keep these practices on your checklist: ​

- Reduce soil compaction. ​
- Manage crop residue. ​
- Plan for cover crops. ​
- Protect waterways and field borders. ​
- Maintain equipment and storage areas. ​

Read more https://bit.ly/4xO110Y

09/18/2026

Combatting hitchhiking pests.​

Starting January 1, 2027, Michigan will join several other states that prevent untreated firewood from entering the state in an effort to protect against invasive pests.​

The new firewood quarantine will not impact certified, heat-treated firewood. Ahead of the new year, the Michigan Invasive Species Program encourages sellers to understand what's no longer allowed, how suppliers can become certified, and what we can all do to protect Michigan's great outdoors from invasive pests.​ Want to learn more about the firewood quarantine and read the FAQs? Check out the link in the comments.​

Read full post from Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development - MDARD below.

Combatting hitchhiking pests.​

Starting January 1, 2027, Michigan will join several other states that prevent untreated firewood from entering the state in an effort to protect against invasive pests.​

The new firewood quarantine will not impact certified, heat-treated firewood. Ahead of the new year, the Michigan Invasive Species Program encourages sellers to understand what's no longer allowed, how suppliers can become certified, and what we can all do to protect Michigan's great outdoors from invasive pests.​

Want to learn more about the firewood quarantine and read the FAQs? Check out the link in the comments.​

Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Michigan State Parks, Trails and Waterways

09/14/2026

See it, squish it!​
Spotted lanternfly (SLF) has been spotted in Berrien County, which is the first detection of the invasive pest in West Michigan. ​
While SLF is NOT a threat to people or animals, it can damage specialty crops. ​
Reporting sightings of SLF helps us track its spread. Learn how you can help based on where you live in Michigan: https://go.mi.gov/9h0463335

See it, squish it!​

Spotted lanternfly (SLF) has been spotted in Berrien County, which is the first detection of the invasive pest in West Michigan. ​

While SLF is NOT a threat to people or animals, it can damage specialty crops. ​

Reporting sightings of SLF helps us track its spread. Learn how you can help based on where you live in Michigan: https://go.mi.gov/9h0463335

09/01/2026

The clock is ticking to learn more about Regenerative Agriculture this year​.

Explore these events to learn about regenerative agriculture practices that are strengthening soil health and transforming Michigan’s agriculture.​

Learn more about these events: https://go.mi.gov/krqo83078​

Ghost House Farm ​
Saginaw Conservation District
Blue Water Conservation District - Sanilac and St Clair Counties
Eaton Conservation District

08/27/2026

Have you ever seen this sign? ​

It’s the mark of a farmer who’s verified in the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) Cropping System. ​

The MAEAP Cropping System recognizes farms that implement crop production practices that promote sound water use, soil conservation, and nutrient management. ​

What do the farms get out of the arrangement? Protection against nuisance complaints, preferred consideration for technical assistance, and recognition as leading stewards of our natural resources.​

Good for the environment, good for farmers, and good for communities. That's the MAEAP promise.​

Want to know more? Visit https://go.mi.gov/xr6dz2985

08/20/2026

Michael Ewing isn’t in conservation for the halibut!​

A Holland native, Michael is in his second year as conservation tech for the Kent Conservation District. He comes to the district with experience in water quality monitoring, invasive species management, vegetation surveys, and more!​

Area of Service: Kent County​

Background: Prior to this role, Michael worked with Kent Conservation District’s strike team. Earlier, he helped support wild rice and lake sturgeon restoration efforts with the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi (Gun Lake Tribe). ​

Fun Fact: Michael is a USA Hockey Level 4 certified coach, a native plant gardener, a fly fisherman, a former bike shop mechanic, and a modern-day Renaissance man!

08/17/2026

Want to learn more about Regenerative Agriculture and the future of farming?​

Mark your calendars!​

Check out these exciting events where you can discover innovative farming practices that are transforming Michigan's agricultural landscape.​

Learn more about these events: https://go.mi.gov/krqo83078