Environmental Protection

Environmental Protection reflects the concern for our natural resources and the implementation of programs to protect these natural resources. The growth of intensive animal agriculture systems and urban encroachment into rural areas have led to increased concerns about air, water and odor quality. The 1998 National Water Quality Inventory reported that agriculture sources are responsible for 60 percent of the pollution in contaminated rivers and streams and 45 percent of the pollution in contaminated lakes. In March 1999 the EPA and the US Department of Agriculture developed the Unified Strategy for Animal Feeding Operations which has a goal that all "AFO's (Animal Feeding Operations) should develop and implement technically sound, economically feasible, and site-specific comprehensive nutrient management plans (CNMP's) to minimize impact on water quality and public health."

Environmental Stewardship

Environmental stewardship is an important aspect of the dairy industry because people working together with the environment will protect the natural resources and help prevent further degeneration of the soil, water and air. This will ensure the safe supply of agriculture products while maintaining the natural environment. Many programs are available to assist the dairyman in implementing environmentally conscious facilities that are cost effective, environmentally sound and adhere to federal, state and local regulations. These practices are sometimes referred to as Best Management Practices (BMPs). Federal, state and local laws stipulate necessary guidelines that must be followed in order to construct or expand a confined livestock system. These guidelines are designed to help protect our natural resources. Proper management of waste water by the dairyman allows the maximum utilization of the nutrients available in manure for fertilizer, bedding, etc. and it aids in the overall contribution to the health of the environment for the dairyman's family, livestock, neighbors and community

Water

Livestock wastes that are improperly transported or disposed of can be a potential hazard to the surrounding environment and community. Nutrient and bacterial contamination of water resources can be a concern when manure wastes are not managed properly. If people come into contact with livestock waste runoff their health can be adversely affected due to the bacteria, protozoa and viruses that may be present in the manure. Waste in surface waters reduces the oxygen in the water, damaging aquatic life. If the waste enters the ground water, then drinking water for the surrounding community is affected.

Odor

When livestock manure is improperly handled and stored it can produce strong gases and odors. These odors can be irritating to livestock, dairy employees and surrounding communities. Waste in surface water can lead to excessive algae growth that can result in unpleasant odors and taste. Some gases commonly associated with livestock manure include:

1. Carbon Dioxide

2. Ammonia

3. Hydrogen Sulfide

4. Methane

5. Carbon Monoxide

Air

The improper handling and storage of manure wastes affects air quality. Methane is a gas that contributes to smog and global warming. Ruminant animals are large producers of methane gas; the proper management of livestock waste can help to reduce the amount of methane released into the air and increase the producer's profits.

Conclusion

Future generations will benefit from efforts made now to sustain and conserve natural resources. There are local, state and federal regulations that need to be followed in order to comply with the laws regarding the construction of agricultural facilities. Many types of permits are necessary to meet the standards set forth in environmental policies.

The future will bring increased demands on the dairyman to meet specific regulations concerning water, air and environment. Informed veterinarians that are aware of regulatory changes can act as mediators between the dairyman and the community. Many of the environmental programs available are currently voluntary, but the dairyman that takes the initiative to put these programs into effect now will be prepared for future laws that will be passed. Many resources are available to the livestock operator to assist in implementing environmental protection programs into his/her operation. This will help to guarantee future generations the use of our natural resources.