Recognizing the importance of both a healthy agricultural industry and the preservation of our water supply, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners adopted Resolution 04-R-384 in November 2004.

The resolution includes agricultural Best Management Practices (BMPs), which are simple and effective measures that can be implemented to protect and preserve our water resources.
The Clean Farms Initiative is a cooperative effort with the Marion Soil and Water Conservation District, designed to assist Marion County farm owners and managers with implementation of BMPs and to recognize them for their cooperative efforts.

Why are BMPs Important?

Horse and cattle farms generate large amounts of manure. A single horse can produce nearly 50 pounds of manure per day, which totals nine tons of manure in a year.
Manure and fertilizer used for crops and pasture contain nutrients that can pollute lakes, springs and other water resources. The nutrients of greatest concern are nitrogen and phosphorus.

Nitrogen, in particular, can find its way into our groundwater. When this groundwater reaches a spring, lake or stream, it can cause excessive growth of aquatic weeds, such as algae. At higher concentrations, nitrogen can be hazardous to both human and animal health.
BMPs help ensure that manure and fertilizer are appropriately applied and managed so that nutrients stay out of our water.

For Additional Information

Contact Marion County's contractor, Jamie Cohen, at (352) 229-4868 or click here to email.