The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association submitted its comments to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources regarding proposed rules to the Environmental Protection Commission about a work plan agreement between DNR and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
“We approve and support the amendments proposed for Chapters 64 and 65 requiring Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations to comply with the federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit requirements,” said Justine Stevenson, ICA’s director of government relations and public policy. “The proposed rule changes were approved by the EPA to ensure that the DNR is meeting the specifications of the federal Clean Water Act.”
Stevenson pointed out that current laws and the proposed rules allow the DNR to take action against those who do not follow the law.
Additionally, the proposed rules give DNR the ability to inspect and evaluate farm operations on a case-by-case basis, rather than applying a “’one-size fits all’ approach that does not ensure water quality,” she said.
“Cattle producers understand the significance of having clean water, and work daily to ensure the future of their operations and the environment for future generations,” Stevenson said in the submitted comments.
Comments on the proposed rules are due to the DNR today. Iowa cattle producers have made comments at all six of the public hearings around the state, and more have submitted written comments.
