Obtain adequate manure storage capacity while maximizing the utilization of manure nutrients.
Overview
With an additional holding pond, manure could be stored and applied as needed by the crop, rather than relying on limited storage space and potentially missing key application windows. This would not only benefit the health and productivity of the crops but also reduce the risk of runoff and pollution into nearby waterways.
References:
NRCS Practice Standard: Waste Storage Facility (313)
NRCS Practice Standard: Pond Sealing or Lining – Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner (521)
Environmental Impact
- Reduced risk of nutrient runoff and leaching
- Improved soil health and increased crop yields
- Reduced use of commercial fertilizers
Greenhouse Gas Reduction
Estimated Cost
Holding Pond Construction:
Scenario Unit: Cubic Foot
Scenario Typical Size: 585,279 ft3
Total Cost/Unit: $0.14/ft3
Reference: NRCS Practice Standard and Scenario: CPS 313 Waste Storage Facility Scenario # 3 – Earthen Storage Facility, Greater Than or Equal to 50,000 Cubic Foot Storage: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2024-11/fy25-wa-scenarios.pdf, p. 218.
Geomembrane Liner:
Scenario Unit: Square Yard
Scenario Typical Size: 2,420 yd2
Total Cost/Unit: $22.10/yd2
Reference: NRCS Practice Standard and Scenario: CPS 521 Pond Sealing or Lining, Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner Scenario #2 – Flexible Membrane, Uncovered, With Liner Drainage or Venting: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2024-11/fy25-wa-scenarios.pdf, p. 893.
Financial Considerations
Cost Savings: With adequate storage, manure can be applied to fields at the ideal times, ensuring that nutrients are available for crop uptake rather than being lost to the environment. This approach prevents the need to compensate for lost nutrients by purchasing commercial fertilizers and instead optimizing on-farm nutrient resources.
Timeline
Midterm
Dependency / Prerequisite
Prerequisite:
- To add a waste holding pond, a feasibility study should be conducted, a design and plan must be developed, funding must be secured, necessary permits must be obtained, and current facilities must be assessed for modifications.
- Prerequisite for covering holding pond and flare emissions