Ca. - Proposed water quality rules may limit grazing

A new effort to regulate grazing and its potential impacts on water quality has California ranchers concerned new rules could limit their food production activities and yield little environmental benefits. State water regulators launched a series of public listening sessions around the state during January to solicit public comments before developing a new "Grazing Regulatory Action Project." The State Water Resources Control Board and the nine regional water quality control boards said in public documents they're working together on the new project to explore ways to improve environmental benefits from grazing, while protecting surface and groundwater. The Water Board said it wants to reduce stream sediment loading and introduction of bacteria and nutrients to water bodies and wetlands, as well as prevent physical alteration of the land that can harm habitat and wildlife. At a listening session on the proposed GRAP, grazing and livestock expert Kay Mercer urged Central Coast Regional Water Quality Board representatives to avoid premature decision-making, noting that much analysis of assumptions is needed. For example, she said water-quality impairment listings can be out of date or inadequate or lack properly calibrated baselines for California conditions. This gap in accurate scientific data could lead to misguided or unnecessary regulations. In her work with the Central Coast Cattlemen's Leadership Group, Mercer said well-managed livestock grazing provides important benefits to the people of California. Any discussion of regulatory options must include consideration of these benefits and provide for continuation of sustainable food production...more