EPA’s online help for farmers
The Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has a one stop shop for online advice for the agricultural community, and is taking requests on what farmers need next.
EPA executive director Damian Wells said there was already a lot of useful information in the Agricultural Guidance section of EPA’s website.
“We aim to support farmers; equipped with the right advice, farmers can manage the farm in a way that minimises harm to the environment and human health, meets Victorian regulations, and helps them to pass on their farms to the next generation in good condition,” Mr Wells said.
“Victoria’s $13 billion agricultural sector is very broad and we want to ensure our advice meets farmers’ needs. That’s why we’re encouraging them to tell us where they need greater support,” he said. “Our Agricultural Guidance page includes a simple, two-minute survey that gives farmers an easy way to ask for the environmental advice they most value.”
EPA’s advice for agricultural community is available online at: www.epa.vic.gov.au/businessand-industry/guidelines/agricultural-guidance
It offers useful advice on protecting the environment and human health, and meeting Victorian law and regulations, on: Livestock planning Odour modelling for broiler farms Separation distances between farming and homes or public buildings
Approvals for large scale saleyards, piggeries, feedlots or animal holding depots Farm waste Solid waste including silage wrap Effluent Dead stock Old batteries Waste tyres Building compost facilities Farm chemicals and containers Chemicals Oils and fuels Cleaning/maintenance chemicals Chemical storage Noise, including generators and other fixed sources
Water, including risk management for reusing water Sediment and dust Dams, basins and holding ponds Roads/tracks and earthworks Anyone involved in agricultural activities is invited to make a request or provide feedback via the survey, at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/EPAwebpagereview
Farmers and members of the public can report pollution to EPA’s 24 hour hotline, by calling 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842).