Ogejo said to think about the location of buildings, wells, surface water, and neighbors. There are also natural aspects such as trees and prevailing winds. Future expansion plans should also be considered. Review state guidelines to determine the required separation distance from these points.
More specifically, Ogejo recommended locating the manure storage structure as close to the source as possible but outside of flood plains. If the structure must be located within a flood plain, protect the storage structure from extreme rain events as stipulated in your state’s regulations.
He advised placing manure storage facilities downslope from the well to protect the water supply. “While observing the minimum distance for well separation may help to protect your own well, poorly designed or poorly maintained animal manure storage facilities could still contaminate the groundwater that supplies other local drinking-water wells,” he shared. “Protecting the groundwater resource as a whole can help protect your neighbors’ wells and the quality of drinking water supplies for future generations.” If this is not possible, cover or contain manure and livestock lots to reduce or eliminate runoff.
Stored manure has an odor, so locate the structure where it will be least disruptive. This is a key component of neighbor relations.
The location, size, and type of storage facility chosen should allow for convenient filling and emptying, Ogejo noted. A push-up wall can be useful when using equipment such as front-end loaders. Make the storage facility accessible by a road or driveway that can handle all weather conditions.
“Manure is stored so that it can be used effectively as a fertilizer for crops, decrease handling costs, and minimize the potential to pollute the environment,” Ogejo wrote. Plan storage structures with these factors in mind.
This article appeared in the May 2025 issue of Journal of Nutrient Management on page 23.
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