Farmers are required to obtain special environmental permits to demonstrate that they understand their responsibility for environmental stewardship. Many farms require a
CAFO permit. Permit rules hold farmers accountable for the number of animals on their land and the
waste management practices to handle the manure on their farm. If farmers want to add cows to their herd, they must apply for additional permits. Permit compliance is determined by annual inspections and government-approved nutrient management plans. Permit violations can lead to fines and even loss of licenses, which in some instances would halt the sale of milk from their farm, so it’s something farmers take very seriously. Farmers know that protecting the environment has more to do with proper management practices than the number of cows on the farm.