Some Bon Homme County, South Dakota residents presented a petition to the county zoning board this week opposing confined animal feeding operations. They asked the board for a moratorium on all permits. One of the local pork producers that just received approval for a 2,400 head hog finishing operation is Dave Guthmiller. He says the proposed moratorium will only stifle livestock growth and economic development.

He says he and his fellow livestock producers are very environmentally responsible and have worked with local and state experts to meet state set requirements.

Guthmiller says his hog finishing operation is valued added ag development that will benefit the area, the state and the region.

Bon Homme County Zoning officials took no action on the moratorium following Monday’s meeting.