The Nutrient Management Act 38 of 2005 requires all livestock operations exceeding two AEUs/acre to develop, implement, and maintain a nutrient management plan. Plans are written by certified nutrient management specialists who have met the criteria specified under Pennsylvania's Nutrient Management Specialist Certification Program, and are submitted to the conservation district for review and approval if they meet the program requirements. Implemented nutrient management plans can improve water quality, reduce fertilizer costs, improve herd health and provide numerous other operational benefits to the farmer. BMPs may be installed to protect streams and groundwater from manure/fertilizer nutrient contamination. In addition, all producers following the provisions of the law will benefit from limited liability protection offered under the act as well as financial assistance programs provided for plan development and implementation.