The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a construction evaluation resolution relating to the construction of confinement feeding operation structures at its organizational meeting on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026.  

By adopting the resolution, Johnson County will use the State of Iowa’s Master Matrix to review proposed construction, expansion, or modification of confinement feeding operations.  Applicants will have to meet stricter environmental criteria before a construction permit can be approved. These additional requirements are designed to provide greater environmental protection for Johnson County’s land and water resources.

Adopting the construction evaluation resolution also allows the Board of Supervisors to play a formal role in the state permitting process. Participating counties may provide official recommendations to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on construction permit applications and offer input to producers during the review process.

The Board’s action ensures Johnson County can continue to provide oversight and input on confinement feeding operations while supporting stronger environmental protections for the community.

More information on Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) construction permits can be found at: https://www.iowadnr.gov/environmental-protection/animal-feeding-operations/afo-construction-permits.