CLA Natural Resources Committee and EAP Have Robust Dialogue
Greeley, CO – On Thursday, October 21st, the Colorado Livestock Association Natural Resources Committee met with members of the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment Environmental Ag Program (EAP). The agenda topics were pertinent and the dialogue robust.
An update on the status of both permitted and registered facilities and CAFO/HCSFO inspections started the discussion. Considerable time was spent discussing the ramifications of financial assurance requirements for Class I composting on CAFO’s. Both groups agreed that it would be most beneficial for all parties involved (EAP, Solid & Hazardous Waste Division and livestock operations who compost) to jointly tour livestock operations for a “boots on the ground” look at real life situations and how they relate to current regulations. The use of technology was another area of great interest to those livestock producers in attendance. Specifically, the use of technology to measure the water level in a retention pond or other data as required by the operations permit. Concern for employee safety and the efficiencies provided by the use of technology are a couple of drivers in this area. Presently, the main barrier to moving forward with the implementation of new technology is the federal rule, which will have to be changed before adoption of a new practice can take place.
SAVE THE DATE! Environmental Ag Program Annual Meeting, February 12, 2020.
Colorado Livestock Association (CLA) was formed in 1998 through a restructuring of the then 43-year-old Colorado Cattle Feeders Association (CCFA). CLA members are cattle and sheep feeders, cow/calf producers, dairy farmers, swine operations, and industry partners. CLA works on behalf of its members in the regulatory and legislative arenas in Colorado. For more information about CLA visit www.coloradolivestock.org