TITLE 4. CONSERVATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES

VIRGINIA SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION BOARD

Notice of Intended Regulatory Action

Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board intends to consider amending 4VAC50-85, Nutrient Management Training and Certification Regulations. The purpose of the proposed action is to respond to comments received during the recent periodic review of the regulation and further support Department of Conservation and Recreation initiatives. Specifically, the board authorized this regulatory action to consider concerns related to (i) the need to more quickly and proactively update the Virginia Nutrient Management Standards and Criteria and other documents incorporated by reference into the regulation; (ii) the use of outdated or unnecessary definitions; (iii) incorporating the use of precision agriculture practices and plans; (iv) updating the fees required for training and certification; (v) increasing the flexibility in reporting mechanisms for certified nutrient management planners; and (vi) clarifying recommendations versus requirements in the regulation. The Nutrient Management Training and Certification Regulations (4VAC50-85) establish the minimum qualifications for individuals who prepare nutrient management plans and the minimum components and content of a nutrient management plan. Nutrient management plans address nutrient applications to both urban landscape and agricultural operations; these plans improve and protect water quality using best management practices such as timing, rate, and placement of fertilizer, manure, and biosolids for agricultural and urban purposes.

The agency does not intend to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 10.1-104.2 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: January 14, 2026.

Agency Contact: Lisa McGee, Policy and Planning Director, Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board, 600 East Main Street, 24th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219, telephone (804) 786-4378, fax (804) 786-6141, or email lisa.mcgee@dcr.virginia.gov.