One swine producer was ordered to publish a letter apologizing for his crimes. Farmers can greatly reduce their criminal liability exposure by formulating and following environmental audit procedures. Be aware, however, that audits can be used as evidence of environmental violations. A number of states have passed environmental audit privilege statutes to keep federal and state regulators from discovering audit information. The EPA, however, contends that statute audit privilege statutes cannot supersede federal law.
Many good farmers fail to keep records necessary to prove compliance.
Accurate records should be kept on the applications of herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers. Proper storage and disposal methods must be followed and employees must be trained in environmental compliance. Back to top of page.