Which type of animal operation requires a CAFO permit if it exceeds certain animal limits?

Concentrated poultry operations are required to obtain a CAFO (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation) permit when they exceed specific animal limits due to the significant environmental impact associated with large-scale poultry farming. These operations can produce substantial amounts of waste, which can contaminate water sources and degrade air quality if not managed properly.

Regulations necessitate a CAFO permit to ensure that these operations adhere to environmental standards and implement appropriate nutrient management practices. This permit process aims to mitigate potential pollution, ensuring that poultry waste is handled in a manner that minimizes harm to surrounding ecosystems and public health.

In contrast, while other types of operations, such as beef cattle, sheep, and dairy, may also have specific regulatory requirements and may require permits, the emphasis on the CAFO permit is particularly pertinent for concentrated poultry operations due to their high density and potential for nutrient runoff into waterways.