CAFO Toolkit
Introducing a Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) moratorium in your community involves careful planning, local engagement, and collaboration. This is a toolkit to help guide the process.
Conduct research on CAFOs, their environmental and health impacts, and existing regulations. Compile data on local CAFOs and their effects on your community.
Host informational sessions, workshops, and distribute educational materials to raise awareness about local CAFOs. Use visual aids, case studies, and expert speakers to present facts objectively.
Identify individuals, organizations, and community leaders concerned about CAFOs. Reach out to environmental groups, health professionals, family farmers, and local businesses.
Form a diverse coalition to strengthen your cause. Clearly stipulate roles and responsibilities within the group to ensure effective collaboration.
Organize town hall meetings to provide a platform for community members to express their concerns and opinions. Encourage open dialogue and address questions.
Create petitions and surveys to gauge community sentiment on CAFOs. Use these as tools to demonstrate widespread support for a moratorium.
Understand existing local, state, and federal regulations related to CAFOs. Identify gaps or areas where stronger regulations are needed.
Seek legal advice to draft a moratorium proposal that aligns with existing laws and regulations. Ensure the proposal is legally sound.
Clearly articulate the goals of the moratorium, such as protecting public health, preserving the environment, and fostering sustainable agriculture.
Clearly outline the proposed duration of the moratorium and its coverage, including the size and type of operations affected.
Schedule meetings with local government administrators to present your case. Provide them with research, community data, and the drafted moratorium proposal.
Encourage community members to write letters, make phone calls, and attend public hearings to express their support for the moratorium.
Issue press releases, opeds and letters to local media outlets, highlighting the reasons for the moratorium and community support. Offer interviews to share your perspective.
Utilize social media platforms to raise awareness, share information, and engage with the community. Develop a hashtag for easy tracking and community participation.
Keep track of local and state legislative activities related to CAFOs. Stay informed about any changes in regulations or industry practices.
Be prepared to adjust your strategy based on feedback, changing circumstances, or new information. Maintain open communication within the coalition and the community.
Be prepared for potential legal challenges from the agriculture industry or other stakeholders. Work closely with legal experts to address any legal hurdles.
Establish a fund to support legal challenges and court proceedings if necessary. Seek community donations and support from environmental organizations.
If successful, celebrate the moratorium's implementation. Host community events, share success stories, and emphasize the positive impacts on health and the environment.
Continue monitoring CAFO developments and collaborate with the community to ensure the moratorium is upheld and, if necessary, strengthened in the future.
By following this toolkit, you can create a comprehensive and organized approach to introducing a CAFO moratorium in your community.
Remember, the key to success is:
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, EDUCATION, AND PERSISTENT ADVOCACY.
A global movement to end factory farming initiated by Compassion in World Farming.