When deciding where to put a manure storage unit, the factors to consider can be divided into manure handling and transport concerns, water quality protection, odor mitigation, and visual isolation.
Manure needs to be stored in such a location that facilitates the collection and transport of manure to the storage. Removal and transportation of the manure to its application site should also be considered. However, the unit should not be located where it interferes with human, animal, or equipment traffic patterns. All-weather access is also an important consideration.
To address water quality protection concerns, manure storage units are normally located so that surface water does not flow into the unit. If necessary, surface drainage and roof guttering can be used to accomplish this.
To minimize the movement of noticeable odors off-farm, predominant wind patterns and the use of up and down wind barriers should be considered. The ideal situation is to minimize the amount of odors caused by air movement across the surface of the manure and maximize the amount of air turbulence downwind to mix the odors with clean air. Vegetative barriers such as tree borders are often recommended to accomplish this. However, existing buildings may also be helpful. Topography can also play a role in odor movement. Under cool, humid conditions, air can tend to “flow downslope” along natural drainages, carrying odors. For this reason, placing a storage unit at the top of a “drainage” that leads to a residence should be avoided if possible.
The final consideration is the concept of visually isolating the manure storage unit away from individuals who may find it unappealing. Common wisdom indicates that if the manure storage unit is not visible, or at least blends in with its surroundings, it tends to be less objectionable to the public. For this reason, consideration should be given to how noticeable the manure storage unit will be to the public.
Author: Karl VanDevender, Biological and Agricultural Engineering, University of Arkansas
