Animal feeding operations (AFOs) are livestock operations, such as dairies, hog, and chicken farms, where large numbers of animals are confined in small enclosures. Animal manure AFOs is a major source of water and air pollution in EPA's Pacific Southwest Region and around the nation. This Web site describes the pollution problems associated with AFOs and improper animal waste management, and the efforts of EPA and its state partners to prevent this pollution in Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Nevada. 

AFOs with more than 700 cows, or other animals whose weight adds up to more than 700 cows, are classified as Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, or CAFOs

 The Problem
How uncontrolled animal waste can pollute our drinking water, rivers and streams, and air.

 EPA Efforts
Read about EPA and USDA (Department of Agriculture) strategies to reduce and prevent pollution from animal waste.
       EPA's Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations Final Rule
       (December 15, 2002)

 Tools and Techniques
Resources for owners/operators to learn about reducing pollution from animal waste.

 Laws
Learn how federal environmental laws apply to AFOs to protect public health and the environment.

 Related Links
Get more information on national efforts to prevent pollution caused by animal waste. Includes several links to photo galleries.

 Contacts
Contact EPA Pacific Southwest Region staff about animal waste questions and concerns.

 Bibliography
List of references used in this Web area.

 Terms
Definitions of terms used in EPA's Animal Waste Programs.