Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Media contact: Forrest Peterson, (320) 214-3789 Technical contact: Lynne Kolze, (651) 282-5992 Willmar, Minn. -- The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has prepared an Environmental Assessment Worksheet for a swine feedlot expansion proposed near Lamberton in Redwood County. The EAW, which describes potential impacts on land use, water quality and air quality, is open for public review and comment through Aug. 31, 2005. Sandy Rivers Brethren Hutterian propose to double the size of their existing swine finishing operation in Charlestown Township from 2,000 to 4,000 head. A new finishing barn, identical to the existing one, will store manure in an under-barn pit. The site also includes five existing swine nursery barns holding a total of 3,000 head, and a barn with 250 chickens. Swine manure and wastewater are collected in concrete pits under the barns. They are pumped out each fall and the manure is immediately injected into cropland according to setbacks from waters and established application rates. An air emission modeling study indicates that the expanded facility will comply with the air quality standard for hydrogen sulfide. An incinerator will be used to dispose of livestock mortalities. The EAW provides basic information on how a proposed project could potentially affect the environment. During the 30-day period it is open to public review and comment. Comments on the Sandy Rivers Brethren Hutterian EAW should be submitted to the MPCA in writing by 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 31, 2005 to Lynne Kolze, MPCA, 520 Lafayette Road N., St. Paul, MN 55155-4194, or by fax to (651) 297-2343. The MPCA will use these comments to evaluate the potential for significant environmental effects from the project and to decide if an Environmental Impact Statement (a more comprehensive environmental review) is needed. Copies of the Sandy Rivers Brethren Hutterian EAW are available for review at:
· The MPCA's St. Paul office, 520 Lafayette Rd. N.
· The MPCA's Web site at/news/eaw/index.html
· MPCA Marshall office, 1420 E. College, Dr., Suite 900.
· Lamberton Public Library, 101 2nd Ave. E.
Copies may also be requested directly from the MPCA by calling (320) 214-3786. Questions about the project should be directed to Lynne Kolze at (651) 282-5992, or (800) 657-3864 (toll free/TTY).