EPA Audits Continue
As part an ongoing audit process, EPA is continuing to inspect medium and large farms in Wisconsin. Dairies have been the primary focus, although the program is not specifically targeted to look at dairy farms. Here is an update on what to expect as the audit process moves forward:
- EPA may continue to do ground inspections of farms in northeast Wisconsin. At this time, they have not expressed an interest in such inspections outside of that region; however, if specific complaints are received, EPA may conduct ground inspection in other areas.
- EPA is looking at various management practices, although the use and effectiveness of Vegetated Treatment Areas (VTAs) appears to be of particular interest.
- EPA will be meeting soon with DNR staff and officials from Outagamie, Brown, Fond du Lac, and Kewaunee counties to discuss 2010 flyover photos and status of the farms in those photos.
- EPA will notify DNR's CAFO permitting staff of any planned CAFO inspections. DNR staff may attend these inspections with EPA staff, but EPA is taking the lead and with be in charge of an follow-up enforcement.
- EPA may inform DNR if they plan on visiting medium sized farms that are identified as having significant runoff or other discharge issues, but it is possible they may not.
- Questions from farms subject to inspections should be directed to EPA, not DNR, since EPA is leading this program.
3.19.2015