WASTE-MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS FOR DAIRY FARMS IN ALASKA

Abstract

Manure handling is one of the most unappreciated chores associated with livestock enterprises. It is also the most difficult problem to solve in a totally satisfactory manner because physical characteristics of manure usually change with the daily weather, seasons, and ration. All handling systems have their limitations, and none works perfectly all the time. The problem of manure handling is most easily solved if cows are confined in covered housing because physical characteristics of the manure remain more uniform under cover — no surface water, less drying and freezing. Improper design of manure-handling systems may lead to higher costs for redesign than new facilities would cost. Even with new facilities, manure handling may present major problems if systems are inadequate for the particular environmental conditions of the area. In continuing efforts to improve livestock waste-handling systems, new methods and equipment are being used. Waste-system components, related closely to dairy-manure handling, deal with removal of waste from buildings and storage facilities that are separated from the livestock housing facility. The major systems provide for collection, transfer, storage, and land application, and are divided into two groups — liquid and semisolid manurehandling systems. Many manure-handling systems are used in the United States. Not all of these systems, however, are adapted to northern climates. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation currently has no code of practice for livestock waste facilities. The agency, however, must be notified for approval of waste-treatment systems used in livestock enterprises. The systems described in this report comply with current state codes in the northern United States and Canada, and most are adaptable to the environmental conditions of Alaska.