Check runoff risk before any manure applications

Farmers and manure applicators need to check the runoff risk advisory forecast, before spreading manure on fields. This tool helps determine the potential for manure runoff from a field, depending on weather conditions and soil temperature.

The runoff risk advisory forecast includes maps showing short-term runoff risk for manure application. The maps account for soil saturation, temperature and precipitation on a scale of 1.5 square-mile grids. The National Weather Service updates the forecast four times daily.

“Assessing current field conditions is just one step in the process farmers should use to make decisions,” said Andrea Topper, nutrient management outreach specialist. “Farmers who don’t have a plan, can talk to their crop consultant or county conservationist to develop one.”

For more information, visit datcp.wi.gov. Manure haulers and drivers need to put safety first when traveling on roadways, in order to avoid spilling manure, prevent injuries, and protect the health of people and the environment.

“About one-third of preventable transportation-related manure spills are due to operator error,” said Kevin Erb, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension conservation professional training program manager. “Attentive driving and maintaining your equipment are two ways to reduce the risk of an accidental manure spill. An accidental spill is not illegal, but failing to properly report and clean it up is.”

All agriculture/livestock operations must report spills or runoff affecting water, to the DNR’s 24-hour emergency spills hotline, at 800-943-0003.