Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations

Current Permitees and Expanding Ag Operators, to register for a free workshop to learn about the new rules and WPDES permit application process, click here.

Every farm, regardless of size, is responsible for proper manure management to protect water quality from discharges. Over the past ten years, Wisconsin has become home to an increasing number of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs), those operations with 1,000 or more animal units. Due to the increased number and concentration of animals, it is particularly important for these facilities to properly manage manure in order to protect water quality in Wisconsin.

Because of the potential water quality impacts from CAFOs, animal feeding operations with 1,000 animal units or more are required to have a Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation permit. These permits are designed to ensure that operations choosing to expand to 1,000 animal units or more use proper planning, construction, and manure management to protect water quality from adverse impacts.

WPDES Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation Permits

Wisconsin CAFO Statistics For detailed information about the number and location of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations in Wisconsin.