Winneshiek County files 210-page document with DNR's Environmental Protection Commission about Millenium Ag expansion

A 210-page document filed by Winneshiek County with the Iowa DNR's Environmental Protection Commission states, "A reasonable citizen familiar with natural resources in Northeast Iowa ought to conclude that Bear Creek Watershed and fishery are gems in (Winneshiek) county's crown."

The document is in support of the county's request that the EPC stop the proposed expansion in northern Winneshiek County.  The commission will meet at 2:00 p.m. Monday to review Winneshiek County's request and make a ruling.

The document filed by Winneshiek County officials points out the Bear Creek fishery annually generates $2.7 million in the local economy.  It says North Bear Creek and South Bear Creek were ranked first and third among the state's trout streams in the DNR's own 2011 Iowa Trout Angler Survey.

County officials ask, "How can a 'legally' permitted large animal feeding operation...in central Iowa--ironed flat by Pleistocene ice--be equated with an operation sited on and spreading manure over karst terrain in Highland Township, where by leaks and spills or other accidents manure can infiltrate shallow aquifers or run off to important state waters?"