Water and Drought

Animal Waste Education

Extensive water quality regulations that address non-point source pollution from animal feeding operations exist nation-wide. Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) and National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations are administered in Georgia by the Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (EPD). Around 175 dairy, swine and egg producers with liquid manure management systems are required to have a certified operator and a nutrient management plan (NMP) as part of their permit, in addition to other requirements related to their size. The amount of education and assistance needed to stay up-to-date and in compliance is significant. Extension has provided valuable training to producers, technical assistance providers, regulators and policy makers on environmental compliance, nutrient management and best management practices for many years. Because of extra funding, they have offered these programs at no cost to farmers and minimal cost to those who will be assisting them. County Extension agents have handled the bulk of NMP development and continue to shepherd farmers through the permitting process. Georgia producers do not have to hire private consultants because Extension provides low and no cost training, representing an estimated savings of more than $1 million for the animal industry. (2006)

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