The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), along with the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), are evaluating a new rule for livestock farms - the rule on Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO).
The federal rule on Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, published on October 31, establishes new environmental standards for America’s livestock farms and represents a significant policy shift. The rule is the result of a 10-year process at the EPA, and the American Farm Bureau Federation is considering it closely.
“The rule contains substantial improvements in water quality protection, and may improve water quality as a result. We are encouraged that the rule includes a number of incentives for livestock farms to operate at high levels of environmental compliance," commented Bob Stallman, President of AFBF.
Mr. Stallman also assumed that a positive aspect is that livestock farmers will have flexibility to assess their farm and determine whether or not to secure a permit. "Regardless of the farmer’s decision, there is no doubt they will have to meet challenging environmental standards. AFBF will closely review the rule and provide further comment in the near future", he concluded.
