As of October 22nd Iowa has implemented a new clean water rule with the intent of increasing inspections of livestock farms and providing stricter enforcement when manure spills pollute waterways. The new rule was implemented after more than a year of review in which the proposed rule went through public hearings, approval of the Iowa Environmental Protection Commission and a legislative rules committee.
The new clean water rule adopted by Iowa generally tracks the requirements of the federal Clean Water Act; however, this has drawn criticism from environmentalists who believe Iowa should look to provide stricter regulations than those currently in place under the federal Clean Water Act.
The new clean water rule implements new inspection and permit processes for livestock farms. However, the new rule does not necessarily impose mandatory permits for farms that repeatedly spill manure. Producers will need to take the time to review the new requirements relative to the inspection and permit process to ensure that they are in compliance with the new requirements. A detailed listing of all requirements of the new rule can be found in the Iowa Administrative Code.
For more information about Ag law or the impact of Iowa's new Clean Water Rule, contact the Goosmann Law Firm at info@goosmannlaw.com or call 712-226-4000.
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