Environmental practices on all dairy farms are tightly regulated by both federal and state agencies. While requirements vary from state to state, dairy farmers strive to consistently meet these standards. In fact, many farmers go beyond what is asked of them. They see the benefits every day when they step into their barnyards and reflect on the legacy they’ll leave to their children.
Regulations and Standards
Dairy farmers work with many government agencies to ensure that our nation’s natural resources are protected. These organizations include the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), state departments of agriculture and local governments.
Since 1972, the EPA has regulated dairy farms under the Clean Water Act. In 2003, the EPA strengthened the regulations, requiring farmers to submit and follow detailed manure recycling plans specific to each farm. These plans, known as nutrient management plans, are continually updated to reflect new technologies as well as changes in regulations and legislation.
Farms of All Sizes Need Permits
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.
Routine Inspections
Dairy is one of the most regulated and inspected industries in agriculture. As part of the regulation process, dairy farms are regularly inspected by both state and federal employees to ensure clean water and to minimize environmental impacts in years to come. These inspections can be unannounced, so farmers must always be ready to show an inspector around their farm and be willing to make the environmental improvements suggested by the inspector. Water and soil samples are commonly taken during these inspections to determine compliance with CAFO permits, and state and federal laws. Protecting natural resources is good for farmers and good for the planet.
Ongoing Research
Dairy farmers spend millions of their own dollars each year, in partnership with land grant universities, to study the environment and identify new strategies to protect the natural resources of farms across the country. One recent example is a voluntary monitoring program to study air emissions and dairy farm compliance with the EPA's Clean Air Act. There’s always more work under way to make sure dairy farms have a positive, lasting effect on local communities and the planet as a whole.
To download the Environment PDF click here 
