: EPA seeks farmer feedback on farming regulations

USAgNet - 11/20/2023

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently shown interest in reinstating certain reporting requirements for farms under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). This move has drawn the attention and appreciation of the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF).

Zippy Duvall, President of AFBF, praised the EPA for its decision to gather more information from those directly affected – the farmers – before implementing new regulations. The AFBF recognizes the necessity of regulations for hazardous chemical emissions but emphasizes that the original intent of the EPCRA was not to burden farms with excessive bureaucracy.

EPA’s approach in soliciting comments signals a positive shift towards more inclusive policymaking. Administrator Regan's openness to farmer and rancher input is a significant step in ensuring that new rules are both effective and considerate of the agricultural community's concerns.

The proposed rules under consideration relate to the reporting procedures for farms that raise livestock. These procedures aim to streamline the process of reporting hazardous emissions, ensuring local emergency responders are adequately informed.

The AFBF is preparing to submit detailed comments, highlighting the challenges and implications of these rules on the farming community. This process showcases the EPA's commitment to understanding the impact of its policies on the agricultural sector, a move that is being welcomed by farmers across the country.

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