Bill S.124 aims to strengthen the regulatory framework for concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) in Vermont by enhancing the authority of the Secretary of Natural Resources to regulate and enforce pollutant discharges from these operations. The bill amends existing agricultural water quality requirements to align with federal standards, ensuring collaboration between the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets and the Secretary of Natural Resources in implementing the federal Clean Water Act. Key changes include the establishment of a new document outlining the roles of both agencies, the introduction of specific provisions for vegetative buffer zones, and a streamlined permitting process that requires annual performance reports and inspections of permitted farms.

The bill also revises nutrient management standards for medium and small farms, requiring certifications to be filed with the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets and mandating reviews for water quality impacts. It introduces a new annual operating fee for permits and outlines conditions for small farms seeking coverage under medium farm general permits. Additionally, the bill establishes a community stakeholder group for public input in the rulemaking process and modifies existing prohibitions on discharges into state waters, allowing certain agricultural practices to proceed without a VPDES permit if they comply with federal regulations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with specific deadlines for permit applications and nutrient management plans.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 6-4810(d), 6-4810, 6-4810a(a)(6), 6-4810a, 6-4810a(a), 6-4851, 6-4858, 6-4816, 6-4871(b), 6-4871, 10-1251, 10-1259, 10-1263, 10-1264(d), 10-1264