Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations(CAFOs)

Wastes from confined livestock can be a source of pollutants when they are discharged to state waters. Pollutants most often reach state water as a result of precipitation (rainfall or snow melt). Pollution of surface and ground water is prohibited, and permits are required for discharges containing pollutants.

concentrated animal feeding operations
Source: NCSU/Biological and Agricultural
Engineering

On September 25, 2008, the Department reissued the CAFO General Permit for the State of Montana, excluding Indian Reservations. This permit will go into effect on November 1 and incorporates the latest state and federal requirements for CAFOs. Facilities which are covered under the existing general permit will automatically be covered under the new permit, but are required to submit a Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) by February 1, 2009. The permit contains a number of new requirements that are explained below. The Department will be notifying existing permittees of these requirements by mail.