The state of Minnesota is asking for input as it looks to change its rules for feedlots for the first time in 25 years.

Feedlots are buildings or confined areas where animals are kept for agriculture. There are about 18,000 in the state, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

These areas allow livestock producers to raise more animals on less land. They also produce a lot of manure, which can pollute drinking water. Since the state made its last major changes to feedlot regulations in the year 2000, these operations have grown and consolidated.

Lisa Scheirer, the MPCA’s feedlot section manager, joined Minnesota Now to talk about potential regulation changes for feedlots.