Pennsylvania says most conservation districts agree to do inspections

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection reports that conservation districts in 29 counties in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed have successfully applied to conduct farm inspections aimed at reducing agricultural runoff into local streams and rivers and the bay.  Nine conservation districts failed to meet application criteria or have declined to participate. Conservation districts were asked to conduct certain farm inspections on the DEP’s behalf, in exchange for funding to support bay technician staff. Conservation districts had previously worked with farmers and landowners on a mostly voluntary basis — and some district were concerned that doing inspections would cross the line between helping farmers and enforcing compliance. At first, the inspections will be limited to ensuring that farmers have completed nutrient/manure management plans, and agricultural erosion and sediment control plans. Both plans have been required in Pennsylvania since at least 1985.