The DNR is seeking public comments on a rule proposal amending the definition of “common ownership” in the Animal Feeding Operations section (Chapter 65) of the Iowa Administrative Code.
Developed in response to a petition from the Iowa Pork Producers Association, the proposed rule would replace the word “majority” with “10 percent or more,” meaning that a person, business entity or any other ownership structure would be considered a common owner (making it a single animal feeding operation) if there is an ownership interest of 10 percent or more of two or more confinement feeding operations located within the regulated separation distances of one another.
The definition would not apply to open feedlots or dry bedded confinement feeding operations, or to facilities built before the effective date of the rule.
Those interested in commenting must submit written comments to Kelli Book, 502 E. Ninth St., Des Moines, IA 50319 or Kelli.Book@dnr.iowa.gov by Oct. 29. Or, attend the public hearing at 1 p.m. in Conference Room 4E in the Wallace State Office Building, 502 E. Ninth St.