DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Neighbors of a soybean processing plant in Des Moines say they're concerned about plans to expand the facility, which already is the largest producer of hazardous air pollution in Polk County.
Some residents who are worried about the health risks associated with the toxic emissions and particulates released by Archer Daniels Midland submitted questions this month to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and sought an extension to the comment period on the plant expansion plans.
The Des Moines Register reports that the agency this week denied their request to extend the 30-day comment period.
A company spokeswoman claims planned modifications will allow the plant to increase production without adding to its existing footprint.
The plant was the third-largest producer of air pollutants in Iowa last year.