Manure Storage & Treatment

What Is Manure Storage & Containment?

Manure storage and containment includes lagoons, pits, tanks, and other structures that hold dairy manure and wastewater until it can be land-applied as fertilizer. Proper storage provides environmental protection, management flexibility, and regulatory compliance.

Why Storage Matters

Dairy cows produce manure continuously, but land application is only appropriate at certain times—when crops can use nutrients, soils aren't frozen or saturated, and weather is suitable. Adequate storage bridges the gap between production and application.

Key Benefits

• Timing flexibility: Apply when conditions are optimal
• Environmental protection: Prevent runoff and contamination
• Regulatory compliance: Meet storage requirements
• Nutrient preservation: Maintain fertilizer value
• Weather independence: Not forced to apply during poor conditions

Storage Types

Earthen Lagoons

Excavated basins with clay or synthetic liners. Common for liquid systems. Require adequate land area.

Concrete Pits

Reinforced concrete structures below or beside barns. Durable but more expensive per gallon.

Above-Ground Tanks

Steel or concrete tanks for slurry storage. Easier to site but may have temperature considerations.

Slurry Stores

Covered or uncovered circular tanks. Provide accessible, mixable storage.

Sizing Considerations

• Regulatory minimums: Most areas require 6-12 months storage capacity
• Climate factors: Longer winters need more storage
• Wash water: Include parlor and equipment wash water
• Precipitation: Account for rain and snow in open storages
• Expansion: Build for future herd size

Regulatory Requirements

Manure storage is heavily regulated. Requirements typically include permits, engineering design, construction standards, setbacks from water and neighbors, and ongoing inspection and maintenance. Consult with regulators early in planning.

Do You Need New or Expanded Storage?

Consider storage projects if:

• Current storage is inadequate for your herd
• Regulations require additional capacity
• Existing structures are deteriorating
• Expansion plans exceed current capacity
• Application timing is constrained by storage

Cost Considerations

Earthen lagoons cost $0.50-2/gallon of capacity. Concrete pits cost $1-4/gallon. Above-ground tanks may be $1-3/gallon. Engineering and permitting add 10-20% to construction costs. Many areas offer cost-share for storage improvements through EQIP and other programs.