INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) on Sept. 27 announced a restructuring of its confined feeding inspection program.

The measure, effective immediately, adds more compliance visits at new confined feeding operations (CFOs) and concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). IDEM will conduct compliance assistance visits at new facilities within the first six months of their completion, followed by inspection visits within the second six months.

“We are committed to higher farm income through a growing livestock sector, and equally to a healthy environment,” Gov. Mitch Daniels said. “These goals can be pursued together. The public deserves to know that the most modern practices are being used and that all rules are being firmly enforced. We’ll do what’s necessary to ensure both.”

While the initiative will be carried out statewide, it will be especially evident in Randolph and Jay counties, which have had the largest number of new applications approved this calendar year.

According to IDEM Commissioner Thomas W. Easterly, the initiative means that IDEM staff and new facilities will work together closely, early in the process, to identify and effectively prevent potential long-term compliance issues. Easterly said State Rep. Bill Davis has asked IDEM to provide increased assistance and environmental oversight at new facilities.

IDEM is responsible for ensuring that confined feeding operations comply with water quality standards. Its confined feeding regulatory program includes a permitting program and compliance inspection.

IDEM also is exploring various funding options to increase inspection and compliance activities for all CFOs and CAFOs in Indiana.

Additional information about IDEM is available at www.idem.IN.gov

This farm news was published in the Oct. 4, 2006 issue of Farm World, serving Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee.