BOISE, Idaho — The Environmental Protection Agency has drafted a new permit to regulate water runoff from some of Idaho’s biggest cattle and dairy feedlot operations.
Idaho Dairymen’s Association Director Bob Naerebout says the permit applies to a small portion of the state’s milk producers. He says he needs to read details of the new permit before advising members how to respond.
The water discharge permit applies to concentrated animal feedlots for beef cattle and dairy cows, but can also apply to other animals.
EPA officials say they will begin reaching out to feedlot operators, especially those seeking to discharge water into creeks and streams. The permit also applies to feedlots on tribal lands.
The agency says the permit application process will give operators more regulatory certainty.
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