Dairy gets IDEM approval
Comet staff report

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has granted the Boerman Carroll Dairy a permit to begin operations, according to an announcement made Friday by the Carroll County Economic Development Corporation.

The announcement read in part:

"The new dairy will add another strong component to Carroll County's vibrant agricultural base.

"Owner Gerrit Arendsen is eager to establish dairy operations in Carroll County. He is a strong proponent of local business. Arendsen actively pursued local grain, silage, cattle, service agreements, and more products and services for his new dairy operation. Financing and insurance are also being locally arranged.

The E.D.C. welcomes the Arendsen family and the dairy and wishes them well in the future."

The Arendsen's dairy operation with up to 4,100 head of cattle is planned in Democrat Township on CR 600 S., near SR 75. Milk production is expected to be approximately 25,000 gallons per day.

Although IDEM issued a permit to begin operations, information is still being requested by Carroll County Surveyor Wayne Chapman from the dairy.

Chapman said he requested a drainage plan be presented before the project proceeds and before a building permit is issued by zoning administrator Dale Huffer.

Chapman indicated that as of noon Tuesday, no drainage plan had been received.

Chapman said the land where the dairy is to be built ponds water in several locations. He said builders could address potential drainage issues if they are willing to spend the amount of money needed for adequate pipe for runoff.

The next drainage board meeting will be Monday, April 2 at 8:30 a.m.