Babcock Genetics Inc. CAFO Permit

Babcock Genetics LLC is an existing Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO). It currently has 3,302 animal units (3,929 pigs less than 55lbs, 5,424 pigs greater than 55lbs, 1,325 sows, 418 boars). Babcock Genetics has a total of 680.67 acres available for land application of manure and process wastewater. Of this acreage, 165 acres are owned and 515.67 acres are rented or controlled through contracts, and 679 acres are spreadable. There are no planned operational changes during the next 5-year permit term. Permit construction schedules are proposed for additional groundwater monitoring and evaluation of permanent manure storage and transfer facilities.

The department’s proposed permit action was noticed December 28, 2018 in the Courier Life newspaper. Requests for a public informational hearing were received, and the department noticed such a hearing February 11, 2019 in the La Crosse Tribune. The hearing was held March 14, 2019 at the Holland Town Hall. Public comments were accepted until March 25, 2019. The department is currently reviewing those comments to make its final determinations regarding this permit action.

Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations WPDES permit required

CAFOs like Babcock Genetics are required to obtain a WPDES permit. The permit regulates how CAFOs store and land apply manure and process wastewater — e.g. milking center wastes and feed storage leachate — in order to protect water quality.

WPDES permit related documents