Imported Manure: Indiana Looks to Regulate Out-of-State Factory Farm Waste

by Taylor Leake · 2011-01-17 11:00:00 UTC
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Indiana is full of crap — literally. It seems other states are sending their liquid animal waste to Indiana. "We have been having a problem in our community with manure sitting around, stinking up our land and air quality," said Indiana State Representative Tom Saunders (R-Lewisville). "We have people who can't open their windows or have their kids play outside."

Rep. Saunders is one lawmaker who's especially interested in waste from factory farms. In particular, he's concerned that manure from factory farms out of state is not subject to the same regulations as manure produced in-state. Rep. Saunders has introduced House Bill 1134 in order to fix that problem.

If the bill passes, all manure that is held at a site for more than 72 hours before spreading would have to be covered or adequately contained by a berm to prevent run-off. Manure that has been applied to a site within 90 days must be placed at least 100 feet from property lines and public roads and 400 feet from residential buildings. It's a relatively modest change, but it's one that could make a big difference to folks residing near large farms who are literally living amongst other state's animal waste. "I understand that manure is one of the greatest ways to fertilize our farmlands," said Rep. Saunders, "but people living around those farms should not be forced to smell it, or worse, deal with the environmental hazards it causes."

Waste from factory farms can indeed cause some serious environmental hazards. Take this story about a factory farm that killed thousands of fish with a manure spill. It's just one of many spills in Iowa that have contributed to some of the most polluted waterways in the country. Or this story about a factory farm that not only caused a major manure spill, but is also responsible for illegally dumping manure on roadways.

This bill is actually a pretty strong argument for supporting another of Indiana's proposed state laws. Earlier this month, Indiana State Senator Allen Paul (R-Richmond) proposed a three-year moratorium on new factory farms and the expansion of existing farms (you can support the moratorium by signing this petition). Of course, bringing manure across state lines shouldn't negate important regulations, either. You can help make sure Indiana is properly dealing with manure no matter where it comes from by signing this petition urging the Indiana State Legislature to pass House Bill 1134.

Photo credit: Photos By Mavis via Flickr

Taylor Leake is a foodie and activist. He's previously worked for Food and Water Watch and Wake Up Walmart.

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