Air Quality Regulations By Ray Massey

Several air quality problems associated with agriculture are recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA estimates that there are about 2 million diesel engines in use in agriculture. Agriculture is also estimated to produce 19 percent of PM 2.5 (particulate matter less than 2.5 microns) emissions and 8 percent of NOx emissions. They recognize that biodiesel may result in a small increase in NOx emissions.

EPA’s National Clean Diesel Campaign seeks to achieve significant diesel emissions reductions in agricultural activity through voluntary, incentive-based approaches. They are creating partnerships, supporting demonstration projects and providing education and technical assistance to promote clean diesel through repowers, replacements, retrofits and cleaner fuels.

On the regulatory side, the EPA, in 2004, revised clean air regulations which include nonroad diesel engine emissions. The new rule sets new standards for cleaner engine technologies effective in 2008. By 2010, sulfur levels in diesel fuel used in agriculture must be reduced from 3,000 ppm to 15 ppm.

Prescribed burns are also receiving increased attention for their impact on air quality. The extent to which ambient emissions from agricultural practices are allowed are location specific. Each state must have a State Implementation Plan for the Clean Air Act. Any restrictions on burning in MO would likely come from the MO Department of Natural Resources for areas that are specified as "nonattainment areas."

Backyard burning is a concern because the burning of household trash releases toxins into the air that remain near the farmstead. Dust from unpaved roads is an issue in some areas. At this point, there are no increased air quality regulations for agriculture promulgated by the EPA.

Ray Massey
573-884-7788