Northeastern Oklahoma residents alarmed by poultry farms

TULSA, Okla. (AP) – Expanding poultry farms in northeastern Oklahoma are forcing residents to address such issues as water shortages and health.

The Tulsa World reports that the number of chicken houses is increasing amid plans for construction of an upgraded poultry processing facility in nearby Arkansas.

The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture Food and Forestry’s website lists 41 licenses for new or expanded poultry operations over the past 12 months. Residents say they are frustrated by the increase and that a permitting process with public notification is needed along with setbacks from sensitive streams, homes and community buildings.

Peggy Thompson says her family’s home has had ample water supplies for generations but that expanded poultry operations are using up the water.

Some residents are calling for a moratorium on new and expanded poultry operations.