A farm map will help identify 1) areas on the farm that are vulnerable to water contamination (sensitive areas such as streams, wetlands, waterways, or any other place where water coming from the livestock operation or barnyard comes into contact with clean water), and 2) practices that may contribute to water pollution (such as not having a proper manure storage or spreading manure too close to a stream or wetland). This base map of the farm should show all farm fields, the farmstead and barnyard area, related use areas, and areas such as wetlands and forested land.

Another value of a farm map is for future planning or changes that farmers intend to make and for others (Cooperative Extension, NRCS, consultants) to help.

A farm map can also help identify soil types and other characteristics such as slope that can be helpful in making management decisions like grazing plans and crop rotations. A map can be helpful when siting composting or manure storage areas. Finally, a farm map can play an important role in emergency planning. In the case of an emergency manure spill, a map can help identify sensitive bodies of water that might be affected. In case of a fire, a map can identify where fuel and chemicals are stored or where grain and hay may be stockpiled.

For further information, see the following related FAQ: How do I prepare a usable map for my farm?

Author: Michael Westendorf, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey