Possible state changes to a conservation program popular among farmers are being opposed by the Berrien County Board of Commissioners.
At a Thursday meeting, commissioners discussed a state budget proposal that would eliminate local administration of the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program. That program, known as MEAP, is run by local conservation districts, and it pairs farmers with voluntary conservation technicians who advise the farmers. However, the governor is considering replacing those voluntary technicians with a team of about 24 state employees.
Speaking Thursday, Berrien County Commissioner Jon Hinkelman said this possible change doesn’t sit well with farmers.
“I do know what the majority of the people who utilize the program want, and they want it to remain voluntary,” Hinkelman said. “I don’t know if there’s anything that this board can do in sending the same type of communication to the other counties, but it is something that should be thought about.”
Commissioner Teri Freehling suggested the board approve a resolution officially opposing the possible change.
“The key elements that I would love to see in our resolution would be that the techs remain local, co-located in our conservation districts and not as state employees, and that the program remain voluntary,” Freehling said.
Commissioners instructed County Administrator Brian Dissette to draft up a resolution expressing their opposition to the idea. Dissette said he would check with the county’s consultant in Lansing to find out if the MEAP changes are still part of ongoing budget talks. If they are, commissioners could take up the resolution at their next meeting.
