The model certification training program was developed by the National Center for Manure and Animal Waste Management, a multi-state consortium funded by the USDA and U.S. EPA.
A primary objective of the National Center is to make available to the American animal production industry information about practices and technologies that can reduce the environmental impact of the industry on air and water quality.
Within the U.S. animal production industry, very few of the documented discharges of wastes have been due to willful acts; most are accidental.
The purpose of the model certification modules is to help producers anticipate and avoid or minimize the impacts of potential manure discharges. Proper training of producers is an effective source elimination strategy.