The Manure Haulers/Applicators Council (MHAC) was originally formed by an independent group of haulers in 2005. Members represent a vital segment of agribusiness by providing support to livestock and poultry producers through hauling, application and management of manure and poultry litter.

The council, which has been involved with numerous legislative and regulatory programs, encourages producers to work with a Certified Nutrient Management Specialist and a Certified Manure Hauler or Broker to ensure that best management practices are being followed and regulatory requirements met. In addition to the nutrient management and hauler/broker certification programs, the council participates in discussions and initiatives regarding transportation issues facing Pennsylvania's agribusiness community.

The 2010 Manure Expo was held in Rock Springs, PA in July. More than 1,000 folks from the agriculture industry attended the event, which was held in Pennsylvania for the first time. At the council's business meeting following the Manure Expo, members of the MHAC identified the proposed revisions of the Manure Management Manual as a priority issue. The Manual, which was created in the early 1970s and has been revised periodically since, is enforced by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and identifies manure management responsibilities for operations not already regulated by a CAFO permit or Act 38 Nutrient Management plan.

For more information regarding the Manure Haulers/Applicators Council, please contact Amy Bradford at abradford@pennag.com or 717-651-5920.