The proposed changes to the Nutrient Management Training and Certification Regulations place an unreasonable burden on farmers within Virginia.  Farmers throughout the state face many challenges each growing season ranging from weather factors to market fluctuations.  These challenges have forced many farmers to abandon their farm operations and sell their land.  Often times the land is sold to developers.  In the last half-century, technology and scientific research have greatly decreased the use rates of nitrogen, phosphorus, and many other inputs used on farms.  While farming is not a perfect science, it is one of the most effective BMP's available.  It is much easier for pollution to reach Virginia's surface waters if it runs across a parking lot than if it must flow across a field.  Help Virginia's farmers remain profitable so that we can continue to do our part in conserving and protecting our environment while producing safe and cheap food by canceling these proposed regulation changes.