A temporary pause has been imposed on the construction of new and the expansion of existing hog barns while the province's Water Protection Plan is being reviewed by the Clean Environment Commission.


The Plan encompasses the N.D.P.'s phosphorus, nitrogen, and Water Quality Management Zone regulations aimed at limiting the amount of nutrient run-off entering our lakes and rivers.


Conservation Minister Stan Struthers notes the Commission has been instructed to review the environmental protection measures currently in place which govern the hog industry.


Hog barns that use emerging technology such as anaerobic digesters for manure will be exempted from the pause.


Struthers didn't give a time line on the Commission's review, but notes it will be sufficient enough for it to be thorough.