Getting Started

The Coalition, created by farmers to serve farmers, is here to help families grow their livestock farms responsibly and successfully. We can help with siting, planning, construction, following all rules and regulations and neighbor relations.

Farmers are encouraged to get off to the right start when considering building or growing a livestock farm by planning at least eight to twelve months prior to start of construction. Make certain your financing is in order and network with other farmers who’ve successfully started a new or grown an existing livestock farm.

Visit the Rules & Regulations page for a review of all regulations applicable to the type and size of livestock farm you plan to build and be sure to contact the Coalition directly at 1-800-932-2436 for assistance in understanding how regulations will impact your plans.

Make sure to work with a reputable builder. Ask for and check references. The builder needs to know all rules and regulations that apply to your new barn. The builder also needs to know the appropriate concrete standards as determined by the state of Iowa and enforced by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

For tips on where to build, go to Siting Considerations.

To learn more about the Coalition, hear from CSIF Executive Director Brian Waddingham by watching the video below.

Related Resources

Rules + Regulations

Larger livestock farms are more regulated than smaller livestock farms, but all livestock producers must adhere to regulations, including set-back distances and water-protection rules.

Neighbor Relations

There are many steps to successfully growing a farm. One of the often-overlooked, yet possibly most important, steps is communicating with neighbors. Neighbor relations isn’t easy – every farm and...

Siting Considerations

While Iowans strongly support farmers and give them high marks for trustworthiness and importance, they do have questions related to specific farming practices. These may include such topics as odor,...