What is the CAFO Final Rule?

The final rule, which was published in the Federal Register on February 12, 2003, simplifies and clarifies the existing regulations. It focuses on the largest operations and the operations that pose the greatest environmental risk. It maintains the current National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting structure (Large, Medium, or Small) and the criteria for when EPA or the state defines or designates a Medium or Small Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) as a CAFO. The final rule maintains or strengthens current requirements for reducing pollution discharges from production areas and promotes innovation.

Fact Sheet: NPDES Permit Regulation and Effluent Limitations Guidelines for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (January 2003; EPA-821-F-03-003)[PDF 85KB] About PDF Files

For more information, you can review the posted rule at www.epa.gov/npdes/caforule. Fact sheets, livestock specific brochures, and guidance documents are also available at this website.

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Persons who have questions about the regulations or the outreach efforts can call EPA Region 7 toll-free at 800-223-0425, or send an e-mail to r7actionline@epa.gov. Please include the term "CAFO" in the subject line of your e-mail inquiry.

What is the CAFO Final Rule?

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