McManus Farms in Leland Township has been certified through the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP).

The program verifies that the farms have implemented appropriate pollution prevention practices. The program assists in compliance with state and federal environmental regulations and with Right to Farm practices.

Technical assistance was provided by Dan Busby of the Grand Traverse Conservation District.

To become certified, farmers must complete three comprehensive steps that include attending an educational seminar, conducting a thorough on-farm risk assessment, and developing and implementing an action plan addressing potential environmental risks.

To date, approximately 5,500 farmers have attended educational program and more than 500 have been verified.