Manure Management Guidelines
Livestock can be an important part of our communities. Livestock waste contains many microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Some of these microorganisms do not cause sickness in animals or humans. Others are pathogens, meaning they are capable of causing disease in animals and/or humans. The purpose of this guideline is to provide livestock owners with tools to help control pathogens.
PATHOGEN REDUCTION – THE ANIMAL
- Some animals appear healthy but are “carriers,” meaning they have been previously exposed to disease-causing microorganisms and can shed pathogens in their manure when they feel stressed or uncomfortable.
- Simple management practices such as vaccinations, adequate access to feed and water, appropriate space allowance, temperature and ventilation control, on-farm sanitation, and good animal husbandry practices can be an easy first step for owners to reduce pathogens in their manure management system.
- Keep pets and stray dogs out of the manure. Fly and vermin control in livestock areas may also reduce the spread and subsequent infection of other animals with pathogenic bacteria.
PATHOGEN REDUCTION – MANURE COLLECTION AND STORAGE
- Keep livestock manure away from water sources.
- Aeration reduces E.coli 99.9%+ after 60 days.
- Compost in such a way that the compost reaches 130-140ºF for 2 five days cycles.
- Sunlight has a drying effect and subjects manure to UV light.
Note: (A) leaving manure on the soil surface increases the likelihood of pathogenic spread through flies, vermin or stray dogs, (B) increases the possibility that heavy rainfall will cause surfaces runoff, and (C) increases odor or gas emissions.
PATHOGEN REDUCTION – MANURE REMOVAL
- Use personal protective equipment when handling manure.
- Unless properly collected and stored, take manure to a landfill away from humans and other animals. The local landfill will accept manure. The local animal control can assist with stray dogs.
- Wash hands and clothing after handling manure.
RECOMMENDATION FOR MANURE USE
- Don’t spread raw manure on growing food crops.
- Don’t apply untreated manure to crops which humans eat raw.
- Don’t leave manure on surface soil. Incorporate it into soil prior to planting.
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