On March 9, the Environmental Protection Agency held hearings in San Francisco, Chicago and Philadelphia on a proposal to regulated course particulate matter, which can include agricultural dust. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association presented witnesses at each of the hearings, speaking against  regulation of agricultural dust. Livermore, California, cattleman Darrel Sweet testified at the San Francisco hearing, on behalf of NCBA.

Cut #1         :30         Outcue: "...health risk assessment."

Sweet pointed out that EPA’s own research does not support the proposal to regulate agricultural dust.

Cut #2         :18         Outcue: "...will not benefit."

While those supporting more regulation complained about feedlot dust, Sweet points out that the impact would be felt by all cattlemen, including ranchers.

Cut #3         :11         Outcue: "...source of ranch income.”

He noted that ranches, especially those located near urban areas, benefit nearby residents by preserving open space and habitat. Placing a severe financial burden on these ranches could simply cause them to disappear.

Cut #4         :23         Outcue: "...and ourselves.”

Because cattlemen are always mindful of the environment, Sweet said he supports further research on the health effects of dust, as well as research that will help control dust.

Cut #5         :18         Outcue: "...to control dust.”