Riverview LLP's West River Dairy Expansion Faces Environmental Scrutiny
Riverview LLP is planning a significant expansion of its West River Dairy farm in Stevens County, Minnesota, aiming to increase its herd from 7,855 to 18,855 cows. This expansion is driven by a growing demand for dairy products both domestically and internationally. The project includes the construction of additional facilities such as a free-stall barn and two rotary parlors, which will enable the farm to produce 11 more truckloads of milk daily. The expansion is expected to create 40 new jobs. However, the project has drawn scrutiny from local residents and environmental groups due to concerns about potential water and odor pollution. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is reviewing an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) submitted by Riverview, which details the environmental impacts of the expansion. The public comment period for the EAW has ended, and a decision on whether a more comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is needed is pending.