Free Environmental Assessment

The OFAER Programr stated as the On Farm Odor/Environmental Assistance Program initiated in June 1997.  The National Pork Producers Council launched this initiative through funding from the National Pork Board.  In 2000 the program began further development and expansion to include poultry, beef and dairy operations.  As of January 1, 2001 all livestock species operations are eligible for an OFAER assessment regardless of size or style of operation.

The environmental challenges facing farmers and ranchers in the U.S. are steadily increasing and becoming more scrutinized by neighbors, regulators, and outside environmental interest groups. Agricultural Engineering Associates (AEA) has been helping farmers and ranchers with their environmental challenges for over a quarter of a century. Recently, AEA helped evolve a nationally recognized program that helps producers identify their environmental concerns and increases producer awareness of those challenges and the affects to the environment. The On Farm Assessment and Environmental Review (OFAER) Program provides a free, confidential assessment of animal production facilities located anywhere in the country. The OFAER Program is managed by Environmental Management Solutions, LLC (EMS) of Des Moines, IA, (www.EMSLLC.ORG) and the funding for the program is provided by the America’s Clean Water Foundation (ACWF).