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Chesapeake Bay TMDL

EPA Assessments of the Subwatershed Animal Feeding Operations (AFOs) in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed

A group of chickens in a holding facility

Starting in 2013, EPA is conducting assessments of AFOs within four subwatersheds in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, one subwatershed per year.  EPA’s assessments evaluated the compliance with state and federal requirements for reducing nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment.  EPA’s assessments also evaluated the implementation of various best management practices (BMPs) relevant to improving water quality at the farm level.  EPA will use these subwatershed assessments to determine how well the various state programs are being implemented at the farm level.  


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