January / February, 2001

Manure Storages,
MWPS-18, Section 2

Manure, depending on how it is managed, can provide important agronomic and soil quality benefits, or it can become a significant environmental liability. One of the most critical aspects in responsible manure usage is storing the manure so it can be applied to crop production land at times that are most compatible with regional climatic and cropping patterns, but livestock and poultry producers who need to store manure face a host of management, environmental, and regulatory challenges. MWPS (MidWest Plan Service) has released a new publication, Manure Storages, MWPS-18 Section 2, that will be an important tool for producers, educators, extension specialists, and others who need to meet the challenges that responsible manure management can present.

Manure Storages, MWPS-18, Section 2, is an expanded and revised discussion of a single chapter from the original Livestock Waste Facilities Handbook, which still is available from MWPS. MWPS-18, Section 2 is the second in a series of publications about manure management systems that eventually will replace the older publication. MWPS-18, Section 1 discusses manure characteristics. Upcoming volumes in the series will address air quality, land application, and animal mortality issues.

The new book covers six major topics: selecting the type of manure storage, sizing a storage facility and controlling runoff, choosing and preparing a site, constructing earthen impoundments, monitoring and managing a manure storage facility, and following proper procedures when abandoning and closing an earthen storage facility. Livestock and poultry producers, engineers, cooperative extension agents, consultants working on manure management systems, and employees of regulatory agencies will find that Manure Storages provides up-to-date information about all aspects of planning, constructing, maintaining, and managing manure storage facilities.

Manure Storages, MWPS-18, Section 2 is fully illustrated, with more than 30 drawings and diagrams of design and construction details. The book includes more than 20 tables to organize and clarify data. Readers also will find equations, examples, and worksheets useful for sizing and designing manure storages. Manure Storages, MWPS-18, Section 2, costs $15.00 per single copy. Prices include tax and shipping. To order the MWPS-18 Section 2, send a check (sorry we do not except credit card orders) or money order to:

Plan Service Secretary
216 Farrall Hall
East Lansing, MI 48824-1323

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Agricultural Engineering
Michigan State University
A.W. Farrall Hall
East Lansing, MI 48824-1323
(517) 355-4720

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