This has created both legitimate and perceived fears about livestock facilities.
Environmental concerns revolve around nutrients, pathogens and odors.
The common denominator of these environmental concerns is manure. It would empower USDA with enforcement authority similar, but in addition to, EPA's existing authority. A farmer could be in compliance with EPA and out of compliance with USDA or vice versa. EPA currently assumes that all manure will enter the waters of the United States, a crime under the Clean Water Act. Therefore, livestock production, by association, is also suspect.