Most open feedlots need some type of solids settling and need to apply manure in a way that will not pollute Iowa streams. Larger lots that have an animal unit capacity of more than 1,000 animal units also need an operating permit or national pollutant discharge elimination system (NPDES) permit. Some intermediate size lots may need an NPDES permit if a stream runs through the lot or there is a man-made conveyance for discharging to a stream.

• New: Design Standards for Open Feedlot Structures 
• NPDES Fees: Information about the application and annual permit fees for Open Feedlots who are required to have an NPDES permit.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Web site has additional information about federal requirements for concentrated animal feeding operations or CAFOs.