A rule regulating where third-party livestock waste can be stockpiled has cleared the House Agricultural Affairs Committee today.

That’s its last major hurdle before the House and Senate vote on it. The rule will put setbacks in place for manure stockpiling, keeping it a specified distance from neighbors, schools, churches, state surface waters and public highways. Violations can lead to fines of up to $3,000.

Committee members Rep. Jim Patrick, R-Twin Falls, and Rep. Donna Pence, D-Gooding, both said the rule would help the Magic Valley, where Idaho’s dairy industry has a strong presence.

The Senate Agricultural Affairs Committee has already approved the rule.