Manure Run-off and Tile Discharge

Livestock are important to production agriculture in Ontario. They convert locally grown grains and forages to meat, egg and dairy products. Cattle, horses and sheep require hay and pasture (forages). The resulting crop rotation of grains with hay and pasture is good for Ontario's productive soils.

Manure spills and contaminated run-off are prime sources of agricultural pollution.

However, with livestock production comes the challenge of managing wastes and by-products. When managed effectively these materials can be essential farm resources. But when managed improperly, they can pollute nearby waterways.

The two critical features of manure storage design are:

• adequate sizing, and
• personal safety 

To avoid problems, liquid and solid manure have to be stored properly to contain nutrients and prevent run-off. Manure storage must be large enough to handle the volume of wastes generated until weather and crop conditions allow spreading.

Some milkhouse wastes enter watercourses through illegally connected tile drains. Studies have suggested that milkhouse wastes are a source of pollution. Potential pollutants include phosphates and bacteria.

Best Management Practices: A First Look