Technical and Finacial Assistance Available for Feedlosts

Stearns County leads all other counties in Minnesota with approximately 2600 livestock operations. These operations help drive the local economy with approximately 4,235 jobs and generate $950 million in annual production output.

Feedlot before manure basin is installed. Feedlot after manure basin is installed.

The Stearns County SWCD's role is to work with producers to identify and assist in solving resource concerns.  Our office offers the following producer services:

1. comprehensive nutrient management planning
2. feedlot evaluations
3. project planning
4. project design and coordination
5. inspection/certification.

The Stearns County SWCD office does not do the permitting for feedlots.

For Feedlot Permitting information contact Stearns County Environmental Services at 1-800-450-0852.

Background Information:

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is the state agency for regulating animal feedlots in Minnesota. In addition, Stearns County Environmental Services is delegated by the MPCA to administer the program for feedlots that are not under federal regulation. MPCA regulates the collection, transportation, storage, processing and disposal of animal manure and livestock processing activities, and provides assistance to counties and the livestock industry. The rules apply to all aspects of livestock production areas including the location, design, construction, operation and management of feedlots, feed storage, stormwater runoff, and manure handling facilities.

For more information on the Feedlot Technical and Financial Assistance contact: