LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — A long-running poultry waste lawsuit remains unresolved after a federal judge rejected proposed settlements and appeals followed. Elizabeth Rumley with the National Agricultural Law Center says the outcome could affect poultry companies, contract growers, and litter management in the Illinois River Watershed.
Oklahoma filed the case in 2005, alleging phosphorus from Arkansas poultry litter harmed water quality in eastern Oklahoma. In 2023, the court found that poultry litter was a key source of nonpoint pollution and held major companies responsible.
The court later ordered civil penalties, an initial $10 million remediation account, long-term cleanup oversight, and restrictions generally limiting the application of litter to 2 tons per acre. Oklahoma later negotiated settlements totaling $31 million with Cargill, George’s, Peterson Farms, and Tyson.
In April 2026, the judge rejected those settlements as insufficient for the required cleanup. Rumley notes poultry litter remains a valuable fertilizer, but excess phosphorus runoff can damage streams and rivers.
Appeals are pending over both the liability rulings and rejected settlements. The final outcome could influence future litter handling, nutrient planning, and costs across poultry-producing regions.
