An Environmental Management System is a process for integrating environmental considerations and requirements into day-to-day management and strategic year-long planning for a business, or in this case, an agricultural operation. This management approach examines a production system from start to finish, from inputs to products. The EMS includes establishing an environmental policy for the farm/ranch and assessing the current operation, then planning, implementing, evaluating, and reviewing actions taken to reduce environmental risk. With an EMS, the owner/operator and employees develop a plan for action that fits specific needs and resources, supports voluntary pollution prevention goals, helps comply with legal requirements, and helps to continually improve the operation.
The EMS model is frequently described as a "Plan, Do, Check, Act" sequence and is comparable to adaptive management processes. Chances are good that components of the process are already being utilized on an operation. These may include management plans for manure handling, pests, or nutrients, in addition to records on soil testing, chemical applications, feeding requirements, or worker training. An EMS helps organize and build on these efforts. The EMS process was developed for industry and is commonplace in manufacturing worldwide. The most recognized system is ISO 14001. An EMS does NOT replace regulations but may help in attaining compliance or realizing other benefits related to reduced environmental liability and better management. Some regulatory agencies are interested in EMSs as a method of encouraging voluntary improvements and perhaps reducing regulatory burden.
For more information, see Agriculture Environmental Management Systems.
-Thomas Bass, Montana State University
