Other states' regulation of large hog farms. The laws regulating large hog feeding facilities vary widely among states. Wyoming, Oklahoma, and other states have adopted laws and regulations specific to hog facilities. In South Dakota, counties may adopt zoning regulations, including the requirement that all new hog facilities be located at least four miles from homes or cities. North Carolina and Mississippi put a temporary hold on the construction of most new hog facilities until applicable statutes or regulations can be implemented.
Some states require hog farms to control odor using various methods.
No state requires specifically that hog farms cover lagoons. This proposal would minimize that potential by requiring the affected hog facilities to monitor water quality and pay a permit fee to help defray the costs of enforcing water quality laws. In addition, these facilities would have to provide financial assurance such as a bond to ensure the clean-up of any pollution caused during the course of their operations. The costs of compliance with the measure are commensurate with the costs of regulations in other states and part of the normal costs of operating a responsible business. The odor from large hog facilities can be unbearable for nearby residents.