7 IDOA GOVERNS SITING, DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF NEW OR EXPANDING LIVESTOCK FARMS In 1996, Illinois was one of the first states in the Midwest to pass legislation related to building livestock farms. The LMFA governs siting, construction and certain operating aspects of livestock farms in the state. It ensures that livestock farms are sited based on scientific, objective criteria, and that the rules are applied uniformly throughout the state. The LMFA provides a balanced approach that both protects the environment and allows farmers the ability to continue to raise livestock on their farms. All new or expanded livestock farms in Illinois are regulated under the LMFA. The LMFA governs livestock farms and manure handling systems, requires certification and education of livestock producers and sets construction standards for buildings and manure storage structures. Eight siting criteria must be met before a new farm can be built or an existing farm can be significantly expanded. The criteria addresses manure management, environmental protection, compatibility with the character of the surrounding area, odor control, traffic patterns and consistency with community growth and economic development. It is important to note that nothing in the LMFA impacts the applicability of environmental regulations. In addition, farmers must be certified in manure management and must renew their certification every three years. Farms designed for 1,000 or more animal units must develop a manure management plan and certify to IDOA that they have one. Animal units are defined in the LMFA based on species. Farms with 5,000 or more animal units must submit manure plans to IDOA for approval.