A25 Manure storage under dry conditions
Last Update:
| Measure | Sector | Net Effect | Impact | Reliability | Tech. rqmt. | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NH3 | N2O | NOx | Nr to water | N2 | ||||||
A25 Manure storage under dry conditions  | Sector Livestock farming | Net Effect 2 | NH3 2 | N2O 2 | NO2 2 | Nr to water 2 | N2 2 | Reliability Promising | Tech. rqmts. Low |
Overview
Storing solid manure under dry conditions is a pivotal measure within comprehensive nitrogen management, considering the range of nitrogen compounds it influences. By storing solid manure in a sheltered, rain-free environment, significant reductions can be achieved in nitrogen emissions, encompassing various reactive nitrogen compounds and dinitrogen (Bittman et al., 2014; Sutton et al., 2022). This approach holds special importance for poultry litter, where maintaining manure dryness serves to limit the hydrolysis of uric acid, a process that leads to the formation of ammonia. However, it's important to note that poultry litter possesses hygroscopic properties and may release ammonia in humid atmospheres, even when rain is absent (Elliott and Collins, 1982).
In its most basic form, this action might involve employing a tarpaulin to shield a pile of manure from rain (refer to Figure 1). Nonetheless, it is important to note that moisture from the ground can still influence the overall moisture levels. For a more thorough approach to dry storage, it is advisable to incorporate an impermeable base as well. This measure is considered a low tech and promising measure to reduce emissions.
Figure 1. The simple use of a tarp to cover manures can help create drier conditions for manure storage. Photo Taken by Virginia Cooperative Extension. Image source: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/storing_manure_on_small_farms_deciding_on_a_storage_option
Measure Efficiency
Keeping solid manure dry during storage plays a vital role in minimising mineralisation and denitrification, processes linked to emissions of nitrous oxide, nitrogen oxides, and nitrogen gas, while also reducing the leaching of nitrate and other reactive nitrogen compounds. In comparison to open storage with a permeable surface, the benefits of maintaining dry conditions to mitigate nitrate leaching are significant (Bittman et al., 2014; Sutton et al., 2022). Further details on options and their efficiencies in reducing emissions are provided in the measure entitled ‘Storing manure using an impermeable structural cover on a solid base’ and the review by Kupper et al., (2020).
This can be particularly valuable for poultry litter management, where the prevention of uric acid hydrolysis through dry storage directly translates into reduced ammonia release. Ogejo and Collins, (2009) highlight that storing litter in an uncovered pile introduces additional moisture from rainfall, potentially causing up to 30% of the total nitrogen to be lost, with 21% of this loss attributed to ammonia volatilisation. In contrast, when poultry litter is stored in a covered pile or under roofed storage, the moisture content can be reduced to around 16-19%, resulting in a reduction of nitrogen losses to 17% (with 13% of that being ammonia loss). Employing roofed storage further diminishes moisture content to a range of 7-15%. While ammonia losses in roofed storage might be minimis ed to as low as 11%, it's important to note that nitrate loss could be greater than in covered piles due to the heating cycles of composting. Nitrate losses can be minimised by ensure manure is stored on an impermeable base.
In conclusion, the simple yet effective strategy of storing solid manure in dry conditions significantly aligns with sustainable nitrogen management objectives and underscores its vital role in curbing environmental nitrogen-related issues.
How to implement
It is important to consider the following steps when implementing a strategy to store manure under dry conditions:
- Site Selection: Choose a location for storage that offers proper drainage, protection from rain, and minimis es exposure to excess moisture.
- Covered Storage: Opt for covered storage options such as sheds, barns, or purpose-built structures to shield the manure from rain and dampness.
- Roofed Structures: If possible, consider using roofed structures with appropriate ventilation to prevent condensation build-up and maintain controlled humidity.
- Pile Organisation: Arrange the manure into organised piles within the storage area to allow for adequate air circulation and reduce localised moisture accumulation.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation within the storage structure to prevent stagnant air and humidity buildup, which can contribute to nitrogen emissions.
- Floor Preparation: Construct a suitable foundation that prevents groundwater seepage, minimising the risk of moisture infiltration from below.
- Liner Usage: Consider using impermeable liners under the piles to create a barrier between the manure and the ground, preventing moisture absorption.
- Regular Monitoring: Establish a routine for monitoring humidity levels, moisture content, and any changes in emission patterns. Adjust storage practices as needed.
- Covering Materials: If open piles are used, cover them with waterproof tarps during wet weather to prevent direct moisture exposure.
- Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections of the storage area to identify and address leaks, structural issues, or breaches that could compromise dry conditions.
- Training and Education: Ensure that personnel are trained in the correct storage procedures to maintain dry conditions and understand the importance of minimising nitrogen emissions.
- Data Tracking: Keep detailed records of storage conditions, moisture levels, and any changes in emission patterns. This information will help refine the storage strategy over time.
By following these steps, an operation can establish a comprehensive plan for storing manure under dry conditions, effectively minimising nitrogen losses and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.
Benefits
The benefits of storing manure under dry conditions can include the following:
Incorporating a plan to store manure under dry conditions offers a range of benefits that encompass environmental, regulatory, operational, and economic aspects, contributing to more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.
Costs
Captial Costs
The implementation of a plan to store manure under dry conditions involves several potential capital costs:
When planning the capital costs of storing manure under dry conditions, it's important to account for these factors and conduct a comprehensive cost analysis to ensure financial preparedness for the implementation of the chosen storage strategy.
Operational Costs
The implementation of a plan to store manure under dry conditions involves ongoing operational costs that need to be considered:
When considering the operational costs of storing manure under dry conditions, it's important to account for these ongoing expenses and conduct a thorough analysis to ensure long-term financial sustainability for the chosen storage approach.
Risks
Potential risks associated with storage of manures under dry conditions include the following:
To mitigate these risks, thorough planning, ongoing monitoring, regular maintenance, proper training, and compliance with regulations are essential. Conducting a comprehensive risk assessment before implementing the plan can help identify potential challenges and devise strategies to manage them effectively.
References
Bittman, S., M. Dedina, C.M. Howard, O. Oenema, and M.A. Sutton, editors. 2014. Options for Ammonia Mitigation: Guidance from the UNECE Task Force on Reactive Nitrogen. Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Edinburgh, UK.
Elliott, H., and N. Collins. 1982. Factors Affecting Ammonia Release in Broiler Houses. Trans. ASAE 25(2): 0413–0418. doi: 10.13031/2013.33545.
Kupper, T., C. Häni, A. Neftel, C. Kincaid, M. Bühler, et al. 2020. Ammonia and greenhouse gas emissions from slurry storage - A review. Agric. Ecosyst. Environ. 300: 106963. doi: 10.1016/j.agee.2020.106963.
Ogejo, J., and E. Collins. 2009. Storing and Handling Poultry Litter. Virginia Coop. Extention - Publ. 442-054. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/bitstream/handle/10919/48469/442-054_pdf.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y.
Sutton, M.A., C.M. Howard, K.E. Mason, W.J. Brownlie, and C.M. d. Cordovil, editors. 2022. Nitrogen Opportunities for Agriculture, Food & Environment. UNECE Guidance Document on Integrated Sustainable Nitrogen Management. UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Edinburgh, UK., Edinburgh, UK.
Authors
Will Brownlie
UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Scotland