The Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) is a common guidepost under which many successful pool operators run their facility.

Issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2014 to create regulations and standards regarding all types of public recreational water venues across the country, the MAHC simplified a previously complicated process to assist in minimizing the spread of recreational water illnesses at disinfected swimming venues.

Until 2014, there was no nationwide standard issued by a government agency covering the maintenance of public pools, spas and other recreational water venues.

No matter where you are within the agricultural supply chain, it’s critically important to understand the different variables that go into growing crops safely. When it comes to the safety of your irrigation water, here’s a question you should ask yourself daily:  Are you adequately treating the water you are pulling from ponds and wells to irrigate your crops to help prevent the spread of waterborne pathogens? 

According to a USDA study, up to 25 percent of all chickens sold in America contain Salmonella. Now, the government is taking action — how will your facility react?

As the careful, conscientious grower you are, you’ve decided to take samples of your irrigation water to a lab for testing. When the results come back, you see a “Cl^–” concentration of 65 parts per million (ppm). You see those letters, “Cl” and grow a bit concerned. After all, isn’t it bad to have chlorine in your soil?

Although you may not look forward to a pool inspection by a local health inspector, it's best to think of the visits as extra layers of protection to guard against potential problems. Health inspectors don’t visit with the goal of shutting down your pool. The job of an inspector is to spot issues and enforce local and state regulations to benefit public health. You can help prepare for your pool’s inspection by understanding the regulations and certifications health inspector refer during those inspections.