I’m a lifelong Stevens County resident and have farmed corn and soybeans for 20 years, located about two miles from West River Dairy. I’ve worked directly with Riverview throughout my entire farming career — selling them feed and receiving manure in return. 

I strongly support the proposed expansion.

Water sustainability is often the first concern people raise, and it’s one I take seriously as a nearby well owner. I’ve personally analyzed over 40 years of groundwater data from the Horton DNR Test Wells. 

The data is clear: aquifer levels here are driven by natural precipitation patterns, not agricultural water use. The statistical correlation is strong and well-documented. To put the expansion’s water use in perspective — Riverview’s maximum draw of 226 million gallons annually is equivalent to the rainfall that falls on just half a square mile of local land.

Our aquifer is one of the best naturally recharging systems in the region, and the data confirms it.

On the agronomic side, manure from West River Dairy is a cornerstone of my soil management. Research from Iowa State University and North Dakota State University both confirm what I’ve seen firsthand: manure outperforms commercial fertilizer in building organic matter, reducing nitrate losses, and improving long-term soil health. 

For organic producers in particular, local manure isn’t optional — it’s essential. Without a nearby source, farmers would be trucking it in from distant facilities at significant cost and environmental impact.

Beyond the agronomics, this expansion means jobs, families, and economic vitality for our rural community. Riverview has been a responsible neighbor and operator in all the years I’ve worked alongside them. I support the West River Dairy expansion with confidence.

Please view the link below for 40 years of data on the Horton DNR Test Wells https://tinyurl.com/4sndzthb.

Brent Koehl 

Horton Township

Stevens County