Indiana mint farms could

face new environmental rules

Indiana's mint farms could face new environmental rules following a dog's death in scalding water allegedly discharged by one farm.

The Times of Munster reports state officials began reviewing the water and air output of Indiana's 16 mint farms after the dog died last summer in water allegedly discharged by a Starke County farm. The farm was subsequently fined $40,040.

Mint farmers use boiling water to extract mint oil that's used in products such as toothpaste and chewing gum.

Republican state Rep. Tom Dermody of LaPorte says greater state regulation of mint farms may help them avoid tougher federal rules. But peppermint farmers from LaPorte, Starke and Pulaski counties told a legislative panel last week they want to be left alone.

The panel's recommendations are expected in October.