Animal waste includes bodily waste from livestock and poultry, wastewater, feedlot runoff, silage juices, bedding and feed. These wastes are a substantial contributor to non-point source pollution and can affect wetland habitats and contaminate drinking water sources. EPA works with other federal agencies, state and local authorities to promote the adoption of animal waste management plans by animal feeding operations. These management plans include stricter construction requirements for wastewater lagoons, permitting, regular inspections, nutrient management and waste management permitting for animal feeding facilities. As part of its conservation efforts, the EPA also promotes the re-use of properly managed animal waste as fertilizer and other agricultural applications.
Recommended EPA Web pages |