Where a producer starts on the road to developing a Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) depends on the producer’s current situation and the amount of time and effort they are willing to invest. The reasons for developing a CNMP could be that it is a requirement, depending on the size of the operation or that an operation wants to receive funds from NRCS Environmental Quality Incentive Program (NCMP are required for this). Another reason may be that the farmer is proactive. There are six components of a CNMP that are not equal by time or effort but all must be completed. They are nutrient management (a budget for all potential sources of nutrients), manure and wastewater handling and storage (description of methods), feed management (the volume and concentration of nutrients), land treatment practices (how manure is applied), record keeping (proof of following the plan) and finally other utilization activities (ex: manure composting or power generation).When a producer signs their CNMP, they are stating that it is accurately reflecting their operations and following the plan. The producer’s involvement in all aspects of the CNMP is vital as it means they understand what the goal is and why it is necessary.