The idea of storing an spreading manure isn't a pleasant one. But, it is a fact of life for farmers. And these days, it's a fact of life that is getting a whole lot more complicated.

Draft regulations under Ontario's Nutrient Management Act aim to provide clear, consistent standards fro agricultural practices that affect the environment, including land-applied materials containing nutrients. Plant nutrients found in manure make great fertilizer, and have been an essential part of farming practice since shortly after the neolithic agricultural revolution (when man began to farm).

The problem? Improper spreading can lead to water quality problems here and downstream. Ever since the Walkerton deaths, the average citizen is much more aware of a variety of practices putting drinking water at risk.

Everyone agrees with the goal of taking preventative measures to ensure the safety of our water. But, much like the Kyoto Accord, nutrient management measures can be confusing, and some question the value.

According to area dairy farmer Dale Ketcheson, the Nutrient Management Act will mean "a lot more paperwork, and in some cases a lot of money for farmers who already struggle to make a living." In his case, it might mean replacing an old, open cement tank - a sudden cost of $50,000. Not an easy price to pay.

These are the same kinds of expectations we can expect in the future if the Kyoto Accord comes into effect.

For the most part, the expectations are reasonable. But, who pays? Even if these one time costs are spread over years, in many cases the profit margins aren't sufficient enough to make farming a viable venture.

Another question local farmers are posing concerns the appropriateness of some of the regulations. Are the regulations suitable for various geographies throughout the province?

This week, farmers met at the Holiday Inn in Trenton to learn more about the draft nutrient management regulations. Then on December 16, farmers will meet with Northumberland MPP Doug Galt to discuss the draft regulations and the impact on area farmers.

At first glance, it appears some farmers stand to lose their shirts. Just as the Liberals face difficult issues to implement the Kyoto Accord, so too will the Tories with the Nutrient Management Program.