Concerns over property rights and landowner agreements took center stage during the St. Croix County Community Development Committee meeting on June 19, 2025. The discussions highlighted significant issues surrounding large factory farm expansions, particularly focusing on the practices of Rich Breeze, a company involved in manure spreading operations.

One of the key issues raised was the lack of consent from landowners whose properties were listed on nutrient management plans (NMPs) for manure application. Instances were shared where landowners in Pierce County discovered their land had been included in these plans without their knowledge. In previous cases, such as a proposed hog concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) in Bayfield County, community members successfully challenged the listings, leading to the denial of the CAFO's application when it could not provide signed agreements from landowners.

However, the situation appeared to shift with Rich Breeze's recent expansion efforts. During a public hearing in July 2024, residents presented evidence that several landowners had been falsely listed on affidavits claiming they had consented to manure spreading. Despite these revelations, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) approved the expansion permit in February 2025, prompting legal challenges from local advocacy groups.

The meeting underscored the growing concern that the current regulatory framework allows companies like Rich Breeze to operate without adequate oversight. The reliance on informal agreements rather than formal contracts raises questions about accountability, especially in the event of environmental mishaps. As the number of CAFOs in Wisconsin continues to rise, community members and advocates are calling for a reassessment of policies to better protect landowners' rights and ensure responsible agricultural practices.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a broader trend of increasing scrutiny on large agricultural operations and their impact on local communities. As residents voice their concerns, the need for stronger regulations and protections for property rights becomes ever more pressing.