MI Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development Approves 2026 Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices

LANSING, Mich. - Today, the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development approved the proposed drafts of the 2026 Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs).

"The GAAMPs are important, scientifically based tools to help producers make appropriate management decisions for their farm," said Tim Boring, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). "MDARD greatly appreciates the volunteer subject matter experts whose contributions through the GAAMPs Advisory Committees help provide baseline protections and promote sustainability."

The Commission approved all proposed changes to the 2026 GAAMPs including the following major edits.

• Care for Farm Animals GAAMPs-Revised the language regarding heat stress in pastured sheep and goats.
• Site Selection and Odor Control for New and Expanding Livestock Facilities GAAMPs-Inserted two new appendix components:
  • An animal unit calculation worksheet; and
  • An educational considerations appendix that identifies optional considerations for road and watershed management planning.
• Manure and Nutrient Management GAAMPs:-Updated the description of the land application of anerobic digestate to meet nutrient management criteria and updated language regarding the placement and management of composted materials.

There were no proposed changes to the 2026 GAAMPs for Cranberry Production; Irrigation Water Use; Farm Markets; and Pesticide Utilization and Pest Control.

The GAAMPs are scientifically based guidelines for farm management that mitigate nuisance conditions, promote sound management of agricultural inputs and support a strong and stable agricultural industry. Advisory committees review the GAAMPs each year and propose updates that are approved by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development.

For a copy of the GAAMPs, please visit MDARD's Right to Farm website, or contact MDARD's Conservation and Stewardship Division, Right to Farm Program at 877-632-1783.

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