CAFO

abbreviation for

1. concentrated animal feeding operation: an animal agricultural enterprise where hundreds of dairy cows, or thousands of chickens, pigs, or cattle are raised and fed in a confined environment at least 45 days per year, rather than being dispersed and feeding in fields or other open areas.

Word History and Origins

Origin of CAFO¹

First recorded in 1990–95; by shortening

Example Sentences

“Yes on Measure J” compiled a list of 21 farms in Sonoma County that meet the size and definition of a CAFO, all of which would be forced to downsize or shut down entirely should Measure J pass.

From Salon

Then the farm across the road changed hands and became a concentrated animal feeding operation, or CAFO, home to thousands of poultry and cattle, churning out a steady supply of manure and animal waste.

From Salon

Upping the stakes here, residents say, is the 6,000-acre Poosey Conservation Area, about three miles from the site of the proposed CAFO.

From Washington Times

A group of Livingston County residents, calling themselves Friends of Poosey, after the local conservation area, has organized against United Hog Systems’ planned 10,500-pig concentrated animal feeding operation, or CAFO.

From Washington Times

The river is about two-thirds of a mile from the planned CAFO, according to state documents.

From Washington Times