Are planners required to identify specific BMPs to address CRPAs?

The requirement for planners to identify specific Best Management Practices (BMPs) to address Concentrated Risk Areas (CRPAs) is indeed mandatory. This obligation stems from the goal of nutrient management to protect water quality by actively reducing nutrient runoff and improving overall environmental stewardship on agricultural lands.

When planners explicitly identify BMPs tailored to CRPAs, they ensure that targeted measures are taken to address the unique challenges and risks associated with these areas. This approach allows for more effective management of nutrients and better compliance with state and federal regulations aimed at safeguarding water resources. The structured identification and implementation of BMPs serve to promote sustainable farming practices while minimizing potential negative impacts on nearby water bodies.

The focus on BMPs also reinforces the importance of proactive nutrient management planning, which is a critical component of responsible agricultural operations in Pennsylvania.