MARSHALL -- The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has prepared an Environmental Assessment Worksheet for Randy Hein, who has proposed expanding an existing operation by adding a 101- by 192-foot swine finishing barn with a maximum capacity of 2,400 head, in Section 28, Graham Lake Township, Nobles County. Combined with an existing barn housing 2,400 head, there will be a total of 4,800 head, or 1,440 animal units.
The EAW, which describes potential impacts on land use, water quality and air quality, is open for public review and comment through Nov. 5.
The proposed barn will be a total confinement, power-ventilated building. Manure will be stored in eight-foot-deep, reinforced concrete pits located beneath each of the barns. It will be pumped out in the fall and injected on cropland as fertilizer.
The EAW provides basic information on how a proposed project could potentially affect the environment. Comments should be submitted to the MPCA in writing by 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 5 to Karen Kromar, MPCA, 520 Lafayette Road N., St. Paul 55155-4194, or by fax to (651) 297-2343.
The EAW may be reviewed on the MPCA's Web site at www.pca . state.mn.us/news/eaw/ind ex.html; or at the MPCA Marshall office, 1420 E. College Drive, Suite 900. Copies may also be requested directly from the MPCA by calling (651) 297-8510. Questions about the project should be directed to Karen Kromar at 1-800-657-3864.
