(Des Moines)– 12 counties, including two in northwest Iowa, will NOT be using the state’s Master Matrix system this year to evaluate construction permit applications and proposed locations for animal confinements.
Osceola and Plymouth counties are among the counties that opted not to sign onto the Master Matrix program for the next 12 months.
The deadline for counties to enroll was January 31st.
Counties that adopt the Master Matrix can provide more input to producers on site selection, the proposed structures and proposed facility management. They can also participate in DNR site visits to a proposed site.
While all counties may submit comments to the DNR during the review process for permit applications, counties that adopt the Master Matrix can also appeal a preliminary permit approval to the Environmental Protection Commission.
Only producers who must get a construction permit are affected by the matrix.
