Moratorium proposed on CAFOs

Wally Kennedy reports in The Joplin Globe, May 8, 2007, the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons, recently adopted a resolution supporting a moratorium on CAFOs until potential hazards to the health and welfare of Missouri residents can be resolved and residents’ safety can be reasonably assured. The resolution is (1) in response to the accumulation of medical and scientific evidence documenting negative effects to humans, animals and the environment. The group said (2) CAFOs contribute to the depositing of heavy metals in soil and water, and promote the excessive use of hormones and growth stimulators to force rapid maturation of food animals; (3) CAFOs have been found to be among the largest point-source producers of antibiotic-resistant bacteria through misapplication of antibiotics as food additives and growth enhancers.