| | Regulatory amendments to the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA) will clarify and bring consistency to the original intent of the legislation that governs confined feeding operations.
The regulatory amendments have been implemented in conjunction with changes to the governance structure, applications and approvals processes, and the development of an extension program to support the legislation and reduce administrative burdens for producers, residents and municipalities.
The regulatory changes include:
- a clearly defined definition for ancillary structures
- clarification of when manure can be stored short-term
- a clear definition of how the minimum distance separation between a feeding operation and outlying areas will be calculated
- clarification on what type of protective layer or liner is acceptable for manure storage
- reinstating specific timelines on how quickly manure and compost materials must be incorporated into the cultivated land after spreading
This legislation helps to ensure the growth of Alberta's livestock industry while at the same time ensuring Alberta's environment and natural resources are protected. AOPA has undergone past regulatory changes in 2002 and 2004.
The new regulations will be implemented October 1, 2006. In the upcoming weeks, details of the new regulations will be posted on Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development's website at www.agric.gov.ab.ca.
Contact: Alberta Ag Media Line (780) 422-1005
Toll-free in Alberta by dialling 310-0000 |
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