County Alliance for Responsible Environmental Stewardship (CARES)
The Florida Farm Bureau and the Suwannee River Partnership created CARES to bring agricultural associations, public agencies and institutions, and farmers together to increase environmental awareness on farms. It recognizes farmers that implement measures to help protect and save water.
The step-by-step approach to environmental stewardship will help farmers to implement sound, positive environmental practices and establish and follow environmental management plans while maintaining profitability.
- Step 1: Local county Farm Bureaus promote the program.
- Step 2: Farmers participate in a State of Florida Best Management Practice program. Farmers signs up for the CARES program. Participating agencies will help the farmer select and implement farm plans which include nutrient and irrigation management.
- Step 3: Farmer implements BMPs and conservation practices.
- Step 4: Farmers that meet minimum criteria are nominated by participating agencies and associations.
- Step 5: Each farmer is recognized as a participant in the CARES program.
- Step 6: To maintain CARES status farmers must continue to operate and maintain their practices over time.
For more information about CARES please contact your county Farm Bureau office or Andrew Wamsley, Florida Farm Bureau Federation, (352) 374-1542, email: Or Partnership staff at (386) 362-0431.
Our water is worth defending and preserving
...that's why we formed the Suwannee River Partnership