In the context of a permitted animal feeding operation there are four main things a producer can do to facilitate a smooth inspection. However, it must be understood that compliance cannot be faked or simply addressed in the days leading up to the inspection; ongoing management and attention to compliance are a must.
1) Know and understand the key provisions of the permit and associated state or federal rules.
2) Be able to produce and explain the most recent version of the nutrient management plan.
3) Have organized and updated records, as well as copies of the permit and required reports available.
4) Periodically conduct a self assessment or use a confidential third party to assist in a mock inspection.
A scheduled inspection may allow for a few days of organization and preparation however the reality of surprise inspections necessitates that producers have records and supporting documents accessible and generally updated. Poor and incomplete records are a leading infraction found on AFO/CAFO inspections. Extension or other technical service providers may be able to assist you in plan writing and organization, record keeping systems, review of regulations and/or self assessments and mock inspections.
-Thomas Bass, Montana State University
