Farmers urged to weigh in about water quality regulations

SAXTONS RIVER — Area farmers are invited to join representatives of Vermont's agencies of agriculture and natural resources to contribute to a federally required water pollution reduction plan for the state.

The workshop is set for Wednesday, Jan. 16, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Chivers Center at Vermont Academy, and will be a good opportunity for anyone interested in learning about pollution prevention practices already required of Vermont farmers.

This event is free, and refreshments will be served.

Federal law requires Vermont address pollution reduction, as nitrogen levels in the Connecticut River and phosphorus levels in Lake Champlain exceed allowable water quality limits, called the Total Maximum Daily Load, or TMDL.

The new regulations aim to support farmers in meeting their needs while protecting water quality, and provide for technical and financial assistance.

In addition to certain agricultural practices, storm water runoff and stream bank erosion are known to contribute to water pollution.

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