Over the years, Animal Feeding Operations (AFOs) have become increasingly larger problems in some states. Depending on a variety of factors, AFOs in Kentucky can be classified as Confined Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs), and may be required to obtain a #Kentucky Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (KPDES) permit. Here in Kentucky, CAFOs haven’t been as much of a problem as in other states–but even though small, they are still a problem. Certain areas of the state have CAFOs for pigs, cattle, and even chickens–but mostly pigs, and mostly in western Kentucky.
The primary concern with CAFOs is the waste product. If not held and disposed over properly, the waste from CAFOs can easily enter local streams and cause severe water quality problems.
Under existing funding, our CAFO efforts are focused on big picture issues, primarily with national policies that affect how Kentucky Division of Water regulates and tracks CAFOs. Over the past decade, the U.S. EPA has proposed, attempted to move forward with, modified, backtracked, and resubmitted plans for national CAFO rules. We have collaborated with regional and national partners as the various EPA proposals have come forward, and we plan to continue those efforts as needed.