Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations
Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations are agricultural facilities that house and feed a large number of animals in a confined space for a limited period of time. As of April 2003, the federal government requires all CAFOs to obtain a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit and to develop a plan for proper management of animal wastes on the site. They must also report those practices to the U.S Environmental Protection Agency each year.
There are approximately 450 CAFOs operating in Missouri. These operations generate a large amount of manure and have the potential to seriously impact our water resources. The state’s rules and regulations are designed to minimize the risks CAFOs pose to water quality and public safety. Water quality is protected through the department's permit .
Resources
- Guide to Animal Feeding Operations, Fact Sheet--PUB915 PDF - Includes information on Class I and Class II Operations
- CAFOs Map PDF

CAFO Workgroup
- CAFO Rule Workgroup
- CAFO Rule Aug. 14, 2006 Letter
PDF
CAFO Rule Aug. 14, 2006 Detailed Comments PDF - New State CAFO Rule and Commercial Manure Applications Feb 20, 2009 Stakeholders Letter PDF
Permitting Resources
- NPDES Permitting of CAFOs in Missouri PDF
- Final MOG01 - Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation
- Form F—Application for Permit, Form 780-0725 PDF
- Permitting Animal Feeding Operations in Missouri (MU Extension)
- Emergency Lagoon Procedures PDF
- CAFO Annual Report, Form 780-1953 PDF
- 2006 CAFO Best Management Practices PDF
- 2006 CAFO Plant Available Nitrogen Procedure PDF
- 2009 Nutrient Management Technical Standards PDF
