The bill H.146 proposes a significant restructuring of agricultural water quality management in Vermont by transferring authority from the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets to the Secretary of Natural Resources. It establishes a new subchapter titled "Agricultural Water Quality," aimed at preventing contamination of groundwater and state waters from agricultural wastes, including manure and pesticides, in compliance with the federal Clean Water Act. The bill outlines definitions related to agricultural waste and concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), and grants the Secretary of Natural Resources the power to adopt rules, conduct inspections, and manage an Agricultural Water Quality Special Fund. It also mandates that, starting January 1, 2029, no CAFO may operate without a permit, and specifies inspection frequencies for various farms to ensure adherence to water quality standards.

Additionally, the bill introduces new regulations for small CAFOs, requiring the Secretary to conduct inspections to determine their designation based on specific discharge criteria. It establishes a certification process for small farms, mandates compliance forms every three years, and allows for the issuance of permits if a farm threatens water quality. The bill also includes provisions for manure application, requiring adherence to nutrient management plans and establishing limits on application rates. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for water quality training for farm operators and custom applicators, while repealing several existing provisions related to agricultural waste management. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance environmental protections and support farmers in complying with new agricultural water quality standards.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-1259, 10-1263, 10-1264(d), 10-1264, 10-8003(d), 10-8003, 6-366, 6-563, 6-918(b), 6-918, 10-905b, 10-1266b(d), 10-1266b, 10-1389b, 10-1446(b)(7), 10-1446, 10-1446(b), 10-1671(8), 10-1671, 10-1679(c), 10-1679, 10-6001(3)(E), 10-6001, 10-6001(3), 10-6001(42), 24-4413(d)(1), 24-4413, 24-4413(d), 32-3752(5)(D), 32-3752, 32-3752(5), 32-3756(i), 32-3756, 32-3758(e), 32-3758, 3-2822(j), 3-2822