IL EPA Resource Guide
Free Resource Guide Available for Illinois EPA Livestock Rules
Illinois pig farmers have a new resource to help them better understand environmental regulations, improve their environmental performance and ultimately help them stay in business.
A free resource guide to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Livestock Rules is available in a swine, beef and dairy version. The Resource Guide helps clarify and simplify the EPA Rules and identifies Best Management Practices (BMPs) for pig farms. The Guide uses real world examples for farmers to follow and relate to their farm.
“As a pig farmer, I have to comply with numerous rules and regulations to operate my farm,” said Chad Leman, a pig farmer from Eureka, IL. “The EPA Rules are very complex and can be very confusing. This new Resource Guide explains the Rules in an understandable manner and draws my attention to actions needed to keep our farm in compliance.”
In August 2014, the Illinois EPA Livestock Rules became effective and parts of the Rules apply to all farms, regardless of their size. The Rules require pig farmers to collect, contain and apply manure in a way that does not cause water pollution and prevent any runoff from feedstuffs and feed storage areas, as well as dead animal disposal areas.
“The fact is that Illinois pig farmers are subject to inspections at any time by IL EPA and if found not in compliance with these rules can be issued substantial fines and penalties,” said Jennifer Tirey, Executive Director of the Illinois Pork Producers Association (IPPA). “All pig farmers regardless of their size have an obligation to optimize their environmental performance and this Resource Guide can help achieve that.”
The resource guides are being provided by the collaborative work of the Illinois Agricultural Coalition which includes: Illinois Beef Association, Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Milk Producers’ Association, and IPPA.
“I would urge all pig farmers to get a copy of the Resource Guide and take the time to read through it and understand what is needed to ensure compliance with the Illinois EPA Livestock Rules,” said Tirey.
Farmers may contact the IPPA office at (217) 529-3100 or email jennifer@ilpork.com to request a free copy of the Resource Guide.