EPAFinal Rule
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Regulation and Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) [W-00-27 Sec14.3.1]
AgricultureEnvironment
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Summary
This EPA rule sets limits on pollution that large animal farms (like cattle feedlots and pig operations) can discharge into waterways. The regulation requires these farms to obtain permits and follow specific guidelines to prevent manure and other waste from contaminating rivers, streams, and groundwater that communities depend on for drinking water and recreation.
Key Points
- 1Large-scale animal farms must get permits before they can operate and must track what pollution they release
- 2Farms have strict limits on how much nitrogen, phosphorus, and other harmful materials can leave their property in water runoff
- 3Farms must use approved methods to store and manage animal waste to prevent it from leaking into soil and groundwater
- 4The rule applies to operations with thousands of animals (like 1,000+ cattle or 2,500+ pigs), not small family farms
- 5Violations can result in fines and legal action, and farms may need to upgrade equipment or change practices to comply
Key Dates
Published
June 3, 2025
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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