Today the livestock industry in New Jersey faces a decreasing land base, increased animal densities on available land, and encroaching suburbia.
The livestock and equine industries are a large and diverse component of New Jersey agriculture. As agriculture in the Garden State continues to change, the management practices for livestock farms will need to address these changes.
The New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA) was authorized by the Legislature to develop Criteria and Standards for Animal Waste Management (NJAC 2:91). The NJDA has developed rules to proactively address non-point source pollution that may originate from livestock operations.
All agricultural animal operations must follow the General Requirements.
General Requirements of the Rules
- Agricultural animal operations shall not allow animals in confined areas to have uncontrolled access to waters of the state
- Manure storage areas shall be located at least 100 linear feet from waters of the state
- Land application of animal waste shall be performed in accordance with the principles of the NJDA Best Management Practices (BMP) Manual
- Dead animals and related animal waste resulting from a reportable contagious disease or an act of bio-terrorism shall not be disposed of without frst contacting the State Veterinarian
- Any person entering a farm to conduct ofcial business related to these rules shall follow bio-security protocol
Who Must Complete an Animal Waste Management Plan (AWMP)?
- 1-7 Animal Units (AU*) - A self-certifed AWMP is encouraged but not required
- 8-299 AUs w/densities < 1AU/acre - A self-certifed AWMP is required
- 8-299 AUs w/densities > 1AU/acre - An AWMP must be reviewed by a conservation professional
- 300+ AUs, regardless of density - A Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) must be certifed by NJDA
- Receiving Manure < 142 tons of manure year - A self-certifed AWMP is encouraged, but not required
- Receiving Manure 142+ tons of manure/year - A self-certifed AWMP is required
* 1 AU = 1,000 pounds of live animal weight
