What Is a Nutrient Management Strategy?
A Nutrient Management Strategy (NMS) is a regulatory document required under Ontario's Nutrient Management Act (O. Reg. 267/03). It focuses on how nutrients are generated and stored on your farm — particularly related to livestock housing, manure storage, and farm expansion.
If you're building a new barn, expanding your livestock operation, or increasing nutrient storage capacity, you will likely need an NMS before construction can begin.
When Do You Need an NMS?
Building a new livestock barn
Expanding an existing barn or livestock operation
Increasing manure storage capacity
Your operation generates 5+ nutrient units
Construction of new or expanded nutrient storage facilities
What We Do
Our NMS service includes everything from farm visit to final submission:
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On-site farm assessment and measurements
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Nutrient unit calculations for your livestock
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Manure storage analysis and planning
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Strategy document preparation
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Submission to OMAFRA for approval
Related Services
Depending on your operation size, you may also need:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an NMS to build a barn in Ontario? In most cases, yes — if you are increasing livestock or nutrient storage capacity, you will likely need a Nutrient Management Strategy (NMS) before construction can begin.
What are nutrient units? A nutrient unit is a measurement used under Ontario's Nutrient Management Act to determine the regulatory requirements for your farm. It's based on the type and number of livestock you have.
When do I need both an NMS and an NMP? Typically when your farm operation exceeds 300 nutrient units, you'll need both a Nutrient Management Strategy (NMS) for storage and expansion, and a Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) for land application of nutrients.
How long does approval take? Approval timelines vary depending on the complexity of your operation. Most plans take several weeks from farm visit to final approval. Starting early is critical — delays can cost you a full growing season.