April 26, 2011

Manure Runoff

Much of the country, including Pennsylvania, have received more rain this spring than the ground can absorb.  This has delayed planting and can also lead to increased manure runoff.  Although waiting to spread when there is not rain in the forecast is ideal, it may not be practical if a farm does not have any more storage.  If spreading during wet weather cannot be avoided then manure should be spread on fields with the least chance of runoff and sink holes should be avoided. Wisconsin has put out a nice public awareness radio address and the message in this address could apply to any number of states this spring.  Resources on manure spreading can be found at http://dnr.wi.gov/runoff/ag/manure.html