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| Idaho Grain Producers Hail Return of Field Burning Program |
8/1/2008
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Contact: Contact: Travis Jones, IGPA Executive Director
Phone: (208) 345-0706
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Negotiations allow farmers to burn off-reservation acres beginning in September 2008
The Idaho Grain Producers Association (IGPA) applauded the unveiling today of the new crop residue disposal program by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The new program reflects a carefully negotiated agreement between lawmakers, regulatory agencies, environmental interests, and an agriculture coalition lead by the IGPA.
“Today’s announcement ends a long process, but one that Idaho agriculture should be proud of”, IGPA President Matt Gellings said. “The option for Idaho farmers to once again use burning as a pest and residue management tool is critical to our ability to provide consumers with reliable and high quality commodities that stock our store shelves. We appreciate the involvement and leadership of Governor Otter and his Administration throughout this complex situation.”
The new burn program provides rules and guidance on acceptable burning practices for growers who have registered with the DEQ and have successfully completed a training session. DEQ is set to begin accepting registration forms on Friday, Aug. 1, in advance of Sept. 2, when the burning program is scheduled to resume.
All growers must register 30 days prior to burning. The registration form can be filled out on-line at the following website: www.deq.state.id.us. Hard copies of registration forms can also be submitted by mail or fax. Regional training sessions will be held in August, or growers can undergo on-line training for certification. Growers are required to pay a $2 per acre burn fee seven days in advance of the planned burning date.
For additional information or questions, contact the Idaho DEQ headquarters at (208) 373-0502.
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