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By CINDY MAHAN
Rappahannock News Staff Writer
Rappahannock farmers were stewing about the new Agricultural Stewardship Act (ASA) at a meeting last Thursday night.
Over 80 farmers and concerned citizens showed up to hear how the law may affect them and to voice their concerns. The ASA has been established to monitor water pollution caused by agricultural activities. It was discussed in detail by Wilmer Stoneman of the Virginia Farm Bureau; Agriculture Stewardship Coordinator Glenn Martin, and Rappahannock County SWCD Director Dick McNear.
Mr. Wilmer explained that the ASA was "bom" in the Farm Bureau, which he described as a grassroots organization. He said, "Our goal wals a farmer-friendly program to address water quality." He believes that 95 percent of farmers are trying to do the right thing on their farm. "How do we address those people that give the entire industry a bad name?" he asked.
Under the ASA, complaints of non-point source pollution stemming from agricultural practices can be made to the Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The ASA also states that the complaints may be made anonymously, either written or verbally, and the Commissioner would have the discretion whether or not to investigate the complaint. The idea of anonymous
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