Regulating Livestock Waste in Nebraska – a Brief Overview

The Department of Environmental Quality (Department) is tasked with regulating livestock waste control facilities in the state of Nebraska. The purpose of the Livestock Waste Management Act, the primary enabling legislation behind Title 130, Livestock Waste Control Regulations, is to protect waters of the state from being negatively impacted by livestock waste. The Department oversees both the state Construction and Operating Permit program and the federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program via delegation by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The Department seeks voluntary compliance from livestock producers and promotes engagement with the general public through educational outreach and the solicitation of public comments regarding permitting decisions. The Department faces a number of challenges in accomplishing these tasks including: public perceptions and misconceptions of the beneficial use of manure; a lack of understanding of the regulations that are in place and the requirements placed on the livestock industry; changes in production practices that have improved nutrient retention; and emerging practices that have yet to be addressed by current regulations.