The Big Debate Over Dairy Farm Expansion: Environmental Protection or Industry Hindrance?
- amy55735
- Jun 4
- 1 min read
In a move to protect the environment and preserve small, family-owned dairy farms, two state lawmakers from New York City are advocating for a ban on the expansion of dairy farms beyond 700 cows.
Last week, Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal, D-Manhattan, and Sen. Jabari Brisport, D-Brooklyn, introduced a bill targeting the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s ability to issue new Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) permits for large-scale dairies. This regulation would mean that any operation with more than 700 cows in the state would be affected since a CAFO permit is already mandatory for dairies with over 300 cows.
Lawmakers’ Perspective
Rosenthal and Brisport, supported by advocates from New York City, argue that the regulation is necessary to prevent new “factory farms” from proliferating. They claim these large operations, often characterized by poor environmental practices, have negative impacts on marginalized communities through pollution, waterway contamination and economic exploitation.
Karen Bohnert
June 02, 2025
Comments