New forms of renewable energy are emerging within the agricultural sector but a California initiative, which has connections to states like South Dakota, is raising concerns about the role of factory farms.
Emissions standards under review in California set pathways for the purchase of tax credits from South Dakota and other states to offset diesel emissions in the Golden State. Producers in the Midwest are asked to set up anaerobic digesters, which pull methane from livestock manure and convert it into cleaner fuel.
Stacy Roberts, board co-chair for Dakota Rural Action, said it looks good on paper, but there is a side effect causing alarm.
"In reality, it's spurring the growth of these operations rather than getting at the core of the problem of the overabundance of animals in confined areas," Roberts explained.
She worries about an influx of larger dairy operations in South Dakota. Supporters of the new rules argue emission tax-credit plans are designed with the greater good in mind, and claim the goal is to reduce emissions planet-wide. The public comment period on California's standards overhaul just wrapped up. A decision is expected this spring.
Roberts pointed out even though these expanded operations would lead to new jobs, some smaller communities lack the resources to accommodate a sudden burst in population.
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Categories: South Dakota, Rural Lifestyle