Is farming and ranching considered a source of solid waste?

In most cases, regulations regarding solid waste sources are aimed more at large commercial agriculture systems that generate a high amount of product output, rather than at individual or private farmers or ranchers. These laws may not affect small farmers because private farms are usually operated on a small enough scale: they rarely generate enough waste to be considered in violation of any federally-mandated waste laws. Your state laws, however, may regulate your waste production differently, so it’s important that you be aware of your local laws in addition to knowing the federally-allowed waste amounts for the type of waste you produce.  

Not every type of waste is regulated under the law. The types of waste that fall under the solid waste regulations put forth by federal and state governments are usually discarded materials made of chemical and semi-solid waste products. Such products may be generated through the daily operations of most large-scale agricultural environments. These wastes also include any gaseous liquid materials that can be stored in separated containment units before they are able to be legally discarded. The laws that regulate these types of wastes are more directed toward the commercial mining and larger industrial settings that may be located within your state.

However, if you are producing waste of any significance, it is always a good idea to consult with a lawyer to find out the specific rules that apply to you. Further, if you produce waste that could be considered toxic in any way or that could affect the cleanliness of ground water within your state, you may have additional compliance requirements. Failure to comply with clean air and water acts can open you up to significant liability, so if you are at all in doubt, get help from an experienced lawyer.