“With an increased focus on water quality, the DNR is more active and attentive than ever,” says Waddingham. “Farmers want to be in compliance, and we’re here to help make sure they are, and to help before the inspection process begins.”

Waddingham says in the past few months they have received calls from farmers wanting to build or grow, only to find their existing facilities are no longer in compliance. “Many times, the problem is a small issue, and not directly related to water quality,” he says. “But farmers need to make sure they are in compliance with the 250-plus pages of current rules and regulations, which can and do change.”

Waddingham sees six common areas to be aware of:

Separation to water sources. This includes wells, creeks and rivers and even grassed waterways.

Separation from neighbors. Separation distances have been adjusted through the years. If you have more than 500 animal units in confinement, you must meet separation from neighbors.

Counting animal units. Animal units are different from the literal number of animals and depend on the type and species of animal. Different species of animals are counted together when raised in similar housing systems.

Soil types. Karst soil types are extremely porous and have garnered much attention lately, especially in Northeast Iowa where they are common. Some activist groups are specifically targeting this area. Before starting construction on a new livestock facility, you need to check for karst soil. You must also check to see if your proposed livestock barn is in the flood plain. Building livestock facilities in a flood plain is prohibited.

Manure management plans. If you have more than 500 animal units in confinement, you need a manure management plan. These plans need to be updated annually.

Manure applicator license. Do you need one? If you have more than 500 animal units in confinement and you apply your own manure, you do.

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Iowa Groups Urge Congress to Extend Biodiesel Blender Tax Credit

The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and Iowa Biodiesel Board (IBB) today urged U.S. House and Senate leaders for a one-year extension of the 40A Biodiesel and Renewable Diesel Tax Incentive, set to expire December 31, 2024.

The energy tax credit has long generated economic return for U.S. soybean farmers and fuel producers, while helping to diversify the nation’s energy supply and reduce emissions.

The letter, submitted alongside the American Soybean Association, National Oilseed Processors Association, Clean Fuels Alliance America (Clean Fuels) and fellow state soybean organizations, comes as guidance and implementation of the Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z) continues to be delayed by the Treasury Department.

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Iowa Farm Bureau analysis finds downturn in ag economy claims up to 11,400 Iowa jobs and $1.5 billion in GDP this year

Ag and supporting industry layoffs result in $100M loss to state and local tax base

A sharp downturn in the agriculture economy is causing a ripple effect throughout the state resulting in the loss of up to 11,400 jobs and $1.5 billion in value-added economic activity (GDP) and a $100 million loss to the state and local tax base, according to an exclusive Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) economic analysis.

Twenty-three businesses in Iowa announced layoffs for 4,097 individuals working in production agriculture and adjacent industries from the first of the year through Sept.18, 2024, but IFBF’s analysis finds those numbers balloon when taking broader impacts into consideration.

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