Water and Land Issues Associated with Animal Agriculture: A U. S. Perspective

CAST papers are the foundation of CAST’s science communication work. Developed by expert-led task forces, these peer-reviewed publications translate agricultural science into trusted insights that inform policy, guide public understanding, and fuel CAST programs, dialogues, and educational initiatives.

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August 15, 2012
Issue Paper

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62300/zmh0d952

Task Force Chairs

Kelly Zering

Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh

Authors

Terence Centner

Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, University of Georgia, Athens

Deanne Meyer

Extension Specialist, Department of Animal Science, University of California–Davis

John M. Sweeten

Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center, Texas A&M University System, Amarillo

Steven Woodruff

Woodruff & Howe Environmental Engineering, Inc., Canton, Georgia

Abstract

This paper (IP 50) addresses specific water and land concerns related to animal agriculture. The authors consider issues of water use and water quality associated with the livestock sector and the related environmental and economic impacts. The paper also includes a discussion of livestock land use, land degradation, land application of manure and manure-based composts, and deforestation related to farm policies. This Issue Paper presents scientific data specific to North America (primarily the United States) and explains how and why these data compare with other parts of the world. Additionally, it discusses how to reduce the environmental impact of livestock agriculture while preserving resources and quality of life.

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