The FDA’s FSMA Final rule on pre-harvest ag water becomes effective this week. The final rule was issued in May of 2024 revising the requirements for pre-harvest agricultural water for covered produce under the FSMA Produce Safety Rule. The compliance date for large farms became effective on April 7th with the goal of enhancing the quality and safety of agricultural water. Farms must conduct annual systems-based ag water assessments to identify and mitigate potential risks associated with pre-harvest water use. According to resources provided by the FDA, the rule is “Based in part on inspections and maintenance of agricultural water systems and an evaluation of various factors, including: Nature of the water source and distribution system; Degree of protection of the water system; Water use practices; Crop characteristics; Environmental conditions and Other relevant factors. The existing requirements for agricultural water in harvest, post-harvest water and sprout production are not changed by this rule.