Chapter 11: Manure Handling Options © 2005 Thomson Delmar Learning. All rights reserved.

Key Chapter Concepts: Manure-handling systems Storage types and sizing Relationship to soil

Manure-Handling Systems — Manual Scrapers Minimal initial investment Increased labor costs Potential damage to storage and structures

Manure-Handling Systems — Automatic Alley Scrapers Minimal labor costs High initial investment cost Potentially harmful if not installed correctly Timed to prevent manure buildup Provisions required for frozen manure

Manure-Handling Systems — Water Flush Minimal labor costs High initial investment cost Requires additional storage capacity Manure hauling more expensive

Manure-Handling Systems — Slatted Floor (Gravity) Minimal concern with gas buildup Cows very clean Holds a full year’s manure High initial investment cost High average annual cost

Manure-Handling Systems — Slatted Floor (Basement Tanks) Cows very clean Holds a full year’s manure High initial investment cost High average annual cost Potential concern with gas buildup

Storage Types and Sizing Storage Types Clay-lined storage basins Flexible membrane-lined basins Walled tank enclosures Size Requirements 12,000 gallons per cow per year minimum Water flush increases size requirements Sand increases size requirements

Relationship to Soil Concerns Nitrogen-based standards: two acres per cow Phosphorus-based standards: four acres per cow Industry shifting from nitrogen to phosphorus Odor control Surface and groundwater contamination Road littering Sand from bedding Solutions Manure separators (solid, sand) Composting Methane generation equipment