On February 25, the Conodoguinet Creek Watershed Association will conduct a panel discussion titled “The A-Zs of CAFOs.”  Admission is free.  The event will be held from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Stuart Community Center, Carlisle Parks & Recreation, 415 Franklin Street, Carlisle, Cumberland County.  Parking is available onsite.

Agricultural operations - whether raising produce, poultry, or livestock - are an integral thread in the fabric of our society.  Agriculture is an important part of Pennsylvania’s economy.  South Central Pennsylvania in particular has been a bastion of agriculture for hundreds of years.  The agricultural industry is complex and deserves further study. 

One of many aspects of agriculture present in the Conodoguinet Creek Watershed is the Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO).  CAFOs are regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as well as the Department of Environmental Protection. 

The CAFO issue is in itself a complicated matter.  There are many factors involved in this type of agricultural operation. 

The panel discussion will include CAFO permitting requirements, differentiate the CAFO from other types of livestock and poultry agricultural operations, and what kind of impact the CAFO has on our natural resources and environment. 

Each panelist will respond to prepared questions from the moderator.  Afterward, the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions of the panelists in an open discussion.

CCWA is privileged to welcome the following panelists:

-- William Ferris, Board Member and Past President, Big Spring Watershed Association;

-- Kelly O’Neill, Agricultural Policy Analyst, Chesapeake Bay Foundation;

-- Kimberly L. Snell-Zarcone, Esq., Conservation Voters of Pennsylvania (formerly with PennFuture); and

-- Steven W. Taglang, Chief, Division of Conservation, Bureau of Conservation & Restoration, Department of Environmental Protection.

The panel discussion will be moderated by CCWA Board Member, Alicia Riegel-Kanth.

The Conodoguinet Creek Watershed Association is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to improving and protecting the creek and watershed. 

For more information, visit the Conodoguinet Creek Watershed Association website.

2/24/2014