What is Agricultural Environmental Management?

Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) is a confidential, voluntary, and incentive based program that helps farmers make the best decisions to achieve their business goals and protect our natural resources at the same time. Participating in AEM allows farmers to lessen their environmental impact and protect Sullivan County`s freshwater resources while continuing to meet their business objectives by making science-based and cost-effective decisions. Farmers that participate in AEM could be eligible for funding of these projects through various federal, state, and local programs.

For more information from the NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets, click here.

Who qualifies for AEM?

We encourage all farmers to participate in AEM! Some of the agricultural practices that qualify include:

• Livestock & Poultry Farms

• Equine Stables/Pastureland

• Fruit & Vegetable Farms

• Greenhouse Operations

• Vineyards

How does it work?

We work with interested local farmers to follow the AEM five-tier approach.

• Tier 1- Our staff will meet with interested farmers to answer a short questionnaire about farm type, farm activities, plans for the future, and any conservation interests the farmer may have

• Tier 2- Our staff will visit the farm and walk with farmers to document any environmental practices already in place on the farm and identify potential concerns

• Tier 3- Local professionals will work with farmers to create plans that address any concerns found in Tiers 1&2

• Tier 4- AEM partners work on plans created in Tier 3 by providing technical, educational, and/or financial assistance

• Tier 5- Plans and practices are evaluated by farmers and professionals to ensure continued success, and are updated as necessary

Interested in AEM?

Contact our office today to find out more about participating in AEM and join over 100 Sullivan County farmers who have already participated! If you would like to fill out a Tier 1 questionnaire to get started, you can bring it to our office or mail it to us!