Transformation of U.S. Animal Agriculture

The animal sector of agriculture has undergone major changes in the last several decades, a fact that has drawn the attention of policymakers and the public. In particular, organisational changes within the industry to enhance economic efficiency have resulted in larger confined production facilities that often are geographically concentrated. Increased facility size and regional concentration of livestock and poultry operations have, in turn, given rise to concerns over the management of animal wastes from these facilities and potential impacts on environmental quality, public health and welfare. This book reviews some of the current laws and legislative issues regarding animal agriculture. Moreover, the authors of this book discuss the application of biotechnology to improve productivity, consistency, and quality; to introduce new food, fibre and medical products; and to protect the environment. This book relies on farm-level data to detail the nature, causes, and effects of structural changes in livestock production.