In accordance with 2002 Iowa Acts, Senate File 2293, the IDNR has proposed amendments to incorporate the master matrix into Chapter 65. To view the proposed matrix, go to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources page, under the Environmental Protection Commission's most recent meeting agenda, Item 8: www.state.ia.us/epd/epcmintz/02oct21a.htm Written comments can be submitted on or before December 5 to: Robin Pruisner Iowa Department of Natural Resources Wallace State Office Building 502 East 9th Street Des Moines, IA 50319 fax 515-281-8895 [log in to unmask] The IDNR will also host a public hearing on December 5, 2002, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM via the ICN network at: Spencer High School North Iowa Area Community College, Mason City North Fayette High School, West Union Maquoketa High School Fairfield High School Kuemper High School, Carroll Osceola Public Library Southwestern Community College, Red Oak Department of Economic Development, Des Moines The IDNR welcomes public comment on all the proposed rules, but specifically requests public comment on several facets of this rule package. The master matrix was created based upon a recommendation by a committee of 10 individuals representing organizations, as directed by SF2293. The committee did not reach a consensus on the inclusion or exclusion of two possible mitigating factors: 1) awarding points for the absence of non-therapeutic use of antibiotics, and 2) awarding points for demonstrated community support. The IDNR asks the public to comment on whether these two mitigating factors should be included in the matrix, and if so, how many points should be awarded and under what circumstances. Secondly, the committee could not reach a consensus decision on the use of subcategory scoring on the master matrix. The IDNR specifically requests public comment on the feasibility of requiring minimum threshold passing scores in the three subcategories of "air," "water," "and community impacts," as well as an overall minimum passing score. Thirdly, the committee did not provide the IDNR with a recommended minimum threshold passing score on the master matrix. In light of this, the IDNR has set forth proposed minimum threshold scores of A) attain a minimum of 50% of the points available in the overall score column, and B) attain a minimum of 30% of the points possible in each of the subcategories of air, water, and community impacts. The IDNR specifically requests public comment on the achievability of these scores. The IDNR is interested in what the public feels is a fair minimum passing score(s). Finally, the IDNR requests public input on the mitigating factors listed in the master matrix. Does the general public believe that all the listed factors belong in the master matrix? Does the general public feel that the mitigating factors have been assigned reasonable scores? Are there mitigating factors that should be listed in the master matrix but are not currently listed, and if so, how many points should be awarded and under what circumstances? Erin E. Jordahl Director, Iowa Chapter Sierra Club 3839 Merle Hay Road, Suite 280 Des Moines, IA 50310 515-277-8868 [log in to unmask] [log in to unmask]