Feedlot study finds inspections lacking

ST. PAUL (AP) -- A three-year, $3 million study concluded that government agencies in Minnesota rarely inspect feedlots or examine their environmental effects, despite widespread complaints about odor and suspected pollution.

The study was authorized by the Legislature to examine the economic, environmental and social costs and benefits of the expanding livestock industry.

The report said the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the lead agency in regulating feedlots, began 86 enforcement actions against feedlot owners during the past six years -- an average of about 15 per year.