Home / Environment / Judge Strikes Down Michigan Livestock Permit Rules
Judge Strikes Down Michigan Livestock Permit Rules
12 Jun
Summary
- Judge overturned parts of Michigan's livestock operation permit.
- Regulators allegedly violated due process with added rules.
- Water pollution concerns persist despite the ruling.
A recent court decision has invalidated key provisions of Michigan's permit for concentrated animal feeding operations. Judge Richard Garcia ruled that the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) violated due process by adding stricter manure-management rules without proper procedure. These additional terms, including a ban on applying animal waste in early March and stricter phosphorus standards, were initially removed by an administrative law judge but later reinstated by EGLE Director Phil Roos. The court found that the process denied agricultural groups an impartial decision and lacked proper public notice. Despite this, the judge upheld provisions like a wintertime ban on animal waste application and stricter phosphorus controls, which aim to prevent nutrient runoff into surface waters. EGLE is now reviewing the decision and plans to implement new permitting provisions quickly to address water quality issues. Environmental advocates emphasize the persistent problem of manure entering Michigan's waters, contributing to algal blooms and E. coli contamination, and the need for improved practices to protect the state's water resources.
