Agriculture must make positive
contributions to CAFO rule-making
 Jerry Epperson, at rear, shows records from his grower-finisher operation to Ray Massey and Chanda Case. He was one of several Missouri swine producers interviewed as a part of a National Pork Producers Council-funded study conducted in five states. The study uses a computer program that estimates the cost and benefit of manure management decisions. Data collected will be used to analyze the cost of implementing changes in EPA rules. Massey is Commercial Agriculture swine/crops economist and Case is an extention associate |
We all share the goals of EPA to protect water quality. The
debate is concerned with the details of how to reach this goal.
EPA is under court order to review and update existing regulations for confined animal feeding operations--CAFOs. Change is coming. The only question is what our role will be in shaping the outcome. It is not enough to criticize. Where EPA's approaches are incomplete, or are technically unfeasible, we must develop and support with good technical data alternative approaches for meeting the goals of clean water. Our responses must actively promote alternative strategies and wording of the proposed rules. Stewardship of land and water resources is a cornerstone of American agriculture. Use this process to emphasize the commitment we have to protect our natural resources and advocate the best methods to meet that commitment.
John A. Lory |
Dick Lee