The meat-packing process is viewed from the standpoint of its use and discharge of water. The concept of integrated water management through in-plant control, solids recovery and disposal, wastewater treatment, and water reuse is presented. The necessity for in-plant change in unit processes and housekeeping practices to reduce waste loads is shown by the wide variation in discharges from similar plants. The scope of the meat industries' waste management problem is defined, and the objectives of the National Meat-Packing Waste Management Research Program are categorized. Environmental Research Need Statements are introduced as a means by which the meat industry can present its waste treatment problems to the program. The past and current research projects are briefly described according to objectives and accomplishments with more detailed information referenced. The results of the recent waste survey of the meat industry are given along with interpretation of their meaning. (Modified author abstract)

"March 1973." "Prepared for Office of Research and Monitoring, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency." U.S. EPA Project Contract Number: 12060 FGF. Program Element 1B2037." "Robert S. Kerr Environmental Research Laboratory." Includes bibliographical references (pages 32-33).