Delmarva Rural Agricultural Collaborative

Confined Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) and the industrial poultry industry on the Delmarva Peninsula threaten air and water quality for local residents, many of whom are low-wealth communities of color. CAFOs emit air pollutants such as ammonia, hydrogen sulfides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter. Elevated groundwater nitrate concentrations and fecal coliform contamination are also associated with the presence of CAFOs. Dr. Sacoby Wilson, Dr. Ellen Kohl (St. Mary's College), Dr. Chris Heaney (Johns Hopkins University), and Maria Payan (Socially Responsible Agricultural Project) have been working alongside a coalition of Delmarva residents to test air and water quality in the region and work towards policy that protects communities from the deleterious byproducts of industrial poultry farming. Other partners for this effort include the Sentinels of Eastern Shore Health and Food and Water Watch.