When new rules are proposed, the DNR seeks public input by holding one or more public hearings. Anyone who wants to comment on the rule proposal can attend a public hearing and make a comment. Or, they can submit written comments to the appropriate person at the DNR provided the comments are received before the closing date for public input.

After public hearings close, the DNR summarizes the public comments and may make changes in the proposed rule based on those comments.

• Notice of Intended Action: Amendments to Chapter 65, Animal Feeding Operations,*pdf

• Proposed Rule: Chapter 65 - Construction Permit Applications: Demand for Hearing Procedures before the Environmental Protection Commission
  • As published in the Administrative Bulletin,*pdf
  
  
  
• New Legislation:
  The General Assembly passed two new laws affecting animal feeding operations in the spring of 2009, House File 735 and Senate File 432. Livestock and poultry producers need to be familiar with the provisions of these laws, because they are already in effect. Producers will be responsible for meeting the specific requirements for stockpiling dry confinement manure, construction of dry-bedded confinements, and applying liquid confinement manure on frozen or snow-covered ground.

  While the DNR is developing rules to implement the new laws and some previously passed laws, the rulemaking process will probably not be complete until sometime this winter. Please check back on this site for the proposed rules and dates of public hearings. After public comments are received and incorporated, the rules will help clarify provisions of the laws.

  Please see the direct links to the legislation below:
  
  

  • House File 735 - Signed by the Governor on April 2, 2009. Effective upon signing. Provides for stockpiling dry manure from confinement feeding operations.
    
    
  • Senate File 432 - Signed by the Governor on 5/26/2009. Now in effect. This bill has requirements for dry-bedded confinement feeding operations. It also restricts the surface application of liquid manure from confinement feeding operations on frozen or snow-covered ground.

  More information on both bills is available in a Summer 2009 article in the Odor and Nutrient Management newsletter. The article, "Producers Should Check State Law Changes for Confinements," is available on the Iowa Manure Management Action Group's site at http://www.extension.iastate.edu/Pages/communications/EPC/