Environmental Management of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs)

This book provides essential insights into the environmental management of CAFOs, addressing regulations, waste handling systems, and their impacts on health and sustainability.

The management of animal waste in Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) presents significant environmental challenges. Environmental Management of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) is designed to provide practical guidance on the operation and maintenance of these facilities, with a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance and the implementation of Best Available Technology (BAT). The book serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the complex interplay of regulations at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as the specifics of the USDA's Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP).

The authors delve into the planning and design of waste management systems, offering insights into the selection of appropriate waste handling equipment. They explore various manure and wastewater storage options, supported by data from the NRCS/USDA, and highlight the costs associated with the operational needs of these systems. Additionally, the book examines the interactions between soil and agricultural waste, discussing soil properties that influence sustainability and the limitations faced by farmsteads.

Furthermore, Environmental Management of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) addresses the pollutants linked to livestock and poultry operations, detailing the pathways through which these pollutants can contaminate surface water and their subsequent impacts on both the environment and human health. By integrating information from diverse sources, this book covers a spectrum of topics from regulatory frameworks to social and ethical considerations, making it an invaluable resource for agronomists, rural community officials, and anyone involved in CAFO management.