The proposed bill establishes the Community Anaerobic Digester System Act, which aims to regulate the processing of organic materials into renewable fuel and digestate. It introduces new definitions related to anaerobic digester systems, including classifications for digester manure, feedstock, and digestate. The bill mandates that community anaerobic digester systems be off-farm and outlines conditions for receiving digester manure from animal feeding operations. It sets regulations for the construction and management of digester structures, emphasizing the need for proper maintenance and coverage. Additionally, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is tasked with adopting rules to enforce compliance and establish guidelines for the stockpiling of dry digester materials.

Key provisions of the bill include requirements for construction permits, air quality separation distance regulations, and water quality management for digester manure and digestate. It specifies that liquid digestate must be applied using designated spray irrigation equipment and prohibits application within 250 feet of non-owned residences. The bill also outlines separation distance requirements for constructing digester structures near water sources and wetlands, mandates the maintenance of confidential digester management records, and establishes civil penalties for violations of air and water quality regulations. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the regulatory framework for anaerobic digestion processes while promoting renewable energy production and ensuring environmental protection.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 202B.102, 455B.103, 455A.6, 455B.113, 455B.115, 455B.174, 455B.182, 455B.185