On-site Burial Module 1 | P a g e

Table of Contents

Overview ......................................................................................................................... 2

Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 3

Introduction Lesson Overview ......................................................................................... 4

Introduction Lesson Contents.......................................................................................... 5

Description................................................................................................................... 6

Advantages.................................................................................................................. 8

Disadvantages............................................................................................................. 9

Evaluation Lesson Overview ......................................................................................... 10

Evaluation Lesson Contents.......................................................................................... 11

Regulations................................................................................................................ 12

Waste Stream Evaluation .......................................................................................... 14

Burial Site Evaluation................................................................................................. 15

Evaluation Questions................................................................................................. 16

Environmental Impact................................................................................................ 17

Environmental Impact Questions............................................................................... 19

Biosecurity ................................................................................................................. 20

Public Health Considerations..................................................................................... 21

Public Health Questions ............................................................................................ 22

Planning Lesson Overview............................................................................................ 23

Planning Lesson Contents ............................................................................................ 24

Personnel .................................................................................................................. 25

Waste Classification and Characterization ................................................................ 26

Materials, Supplies, and Equipment .......................................................................... 27

Temporary Carcass Storage...................................................................................... 29

Secure Transportation ............................................................................................... 30

Site Suitability ............................................................................................................ 31

Operations Lesson Overview ........................................................................................ 32

Operations Lesson Contents......................................................................................... 33

Incident Management ................................................................................................ 34

Infected Premises Preparation .................................................................................. 35

On-site Burial Operations .......................................................................................... 38

Summary....................................................................................................................... 39
On-site Burial Module 2 | P a g e

Overview

Welcome to the On-site Burial Module of the online Carcass Management Course. 

While completing this module, you may encounter references to the Emergency 

Management Tools; Health, Safety, and Personal Protection Equipment; Secure 

Transport; and to Biosecurity, which are broadly covered in their own separate training 

modules. These modules are found in the Introduction Modules, beginning with the 

Orientation Module.

Effective management of carcasses and associated contaminated materials is a critical 

component of a successful response during an animal health emergency. Carcass 

management measures contain, treat, or destroy contaminated or potentially 

contaminated materials in order to:

 Prevent spread of a disease outbreak to protect the nation’s agricultural industry 

 Protect the environment by preventing carcass waste products from 

contaminating soil, water, and air 

 Protect decaying carcasses from insects and scavengers which can transport 

pathogens to other locations 

 Safeguard public health by removing potentially contaminated food products from 

the human food supply 

 Safeguard animal health by removing potentially contaminated feed from the 

animal feed supply

This training module is presented from the perspective that you have already used 

the MLCh Tool (Matrix, Decision Loop, and Checklist) explained in the Emergency 

Management Tools Module and selected on-site burial as the preferred carcass 

management option.
On-site Burial Module 3 | P a g e

Objectives 

This module presents the material in four different lessons: 

 Introduction

 Planning

 Evaluation

 Operations

Upon completing this module, you should be able to:

 Describe on-site burial, including lined and unlined trench or pit methods

 Identify the advantages and disadvantages of on-site burial 

 Identify personnel health risks associated with on-site burial 

 Consider environmental risks associated with on-site burial

 Obtain regulations governing on-site burial by consulting with state officials

 Identify factors used to evaluate on-site burial as a carcass management option

 List critical elements when planning on-site burial

 Recognize key components of on-site burial operations
On-site Burial Module 4 | P a g e

Introduction Lesson Overview 

Definition: Unlined burial of carcasses involves placing them in a trench or large, 

earthen hole or pit. This method can be used for daily mortality and large-scale carcass 

management needs if site conditions are suitable and regulatory approval is obtained. 

However, these sites are typically not pre-existing, and must be constructed at the time 

of the emergency

Unlined trenches or burial pits:

 Involve excavating a trench or pit into the earth, then

 Placing carcasses in the excavation, and covering the carcasses with the 

excavated material 

In contrast, lined burial sites:

 Are excavations which have been lined with an impermeable material, and

 Incorporate systems to collect, treat, and/or dispose of leachate and landfill gas

and require regulatory approval and permits

 Lined burial also known as engineered landfills or permitted landfills, see Off-site 

Permitted Landfill Module for more information on lined burial

The remainder of this module will focus primarily on unlined burial.
On-site Burial Module 5 | P a g e

Introduction Lesson Contents

This lesson is divided into the following sections:

 Description – Presents the key features of on-site burial

 Design – Discusses the basic design of an on-site burial site and its various 

components and systems

 Advantages – Describes the benefits of using on-site burial as an option

 Disadvantages – Covers the difficulties and possible drawbacks associated with 

use of on-site burial
On-site Burial Module 6 | P a g e

Description 

Trench burial and pits are the two most commonly used on-site burial methods. 

Trenches are much longer than they are wide, whereas pits have a length which is more 

proportional to width. Both methods can be used for daily mortality needs if allowed by 

regulatory authorities; however trench burial is more commonly used for emergency 

carcass management because of speed. 

 Burial involves the use of an excavator or backhoe to remove soil from the 

ground, piling the soil nearby for later use, depositing the carcasses in the 

excavated area, and then covering the carcasses with the soil that had been 

previously removed

 Once buried, carcasses undergo anaerobic decomposition and break down into

minerals and organic material. This is a slow process and may take decades in 

many cases.

 The anaerobic decomposition process generates body fluids (leachate) which will 

slowly penetrate into the native soil. Depending on the soil type and water table 

depth there may be some risks associated with contaminating groundwater.

 A variety of physical, chemical or biological processes may, under favorable 

conditions, reduce the mass, toxicity, mobility, volume or concentration of 

contaminants in soil or groundwater over time

Figure 1. Carcasses Deposited in an Unlined Burial Site 
On-site Burial Module 7 | P a g e

Description (cont.)

 Carcass decomposition also generates methane, an explosive gas which can 

migrate through the soil to enclosed spaces such as utility vaults and basements 

where it can replace the air and create an asphyxiation hazard or accumulate to 

explosive concentrations in the presence of a spark or flame

 Methane is also a greenhouse gas which may contribute to global climate 

change

 Unlined burial techniques were utilized during Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) 

outbreaks in the United Kingdom, Japan and South Korea between 2001 and 

2011

 Burial has been historically used for mortality management and is familiar to most 

people

Figure 2. Illustration of Trench Configuration with Side Slopes
On-site Burial Module 8 | P a g e

Advantages 

On-Site burial can be rapidly implemented in the event of an animal health emergency if 

the excavation equipment, space, and regulatory support is available. Burial may

provide the following advantages:

 Burial can take place on or adjacent to premises where depopulation occurs, 

eliminating the need for off-site transport 

 Carcasses can be covered with the material excavated from the trenches and 

additional materials are usually not required

 Buried carcasses and animal by-products are eventually degraded and broken 

down into minerals and organic material

 Trench burial may be able to accommodate a large number of carcasses if the 

space is available

 Equipment for burial is generally widely available
On-site Burial Module 9 | P a g e

Disadvantages 

Potential disadvantages of using on-site burial of animal carcasses and material 

include:

 Carcass degradation will generate significant quantities of leachate and 

groundwater contamination may result

 The burial process may not significantly inactivate pathogens or contain 

contaminants

 The by-products of carcass burial have no commercial value

 Certain geological conditions, such as karst topography sandy soil and a high 

seasonal water table, can increase the risk of contaminants reaching the 

groundwater

 Costs of installing and maintaining groundwater monitoring wells; collecting water 

samples, lab analysis of samples, environmental remediation (particularly 

groundwater remediation), etc. should be taken into account

 Land used for carcass management may not be available for other productive 

purposes for a number of years 

 The property owner may be liable for all environmental remediation costs 

associated with unlined burial

 The presence of a burial site may reduce the property value, and must be 

disclosed if the property is sold

 It may be difficult to identify burial sites with suitable geological and/or 

hydrological properties, and wet or frozen ground may hinder burial
On-site Burial Module 10 | P a g e

Evaluation Lesson Overview

This lesson contains information to help assist you in determining if on-site burial is a 

suitable method for disposing of carcasses following an animal health event.

Factors in the evaluation include: 

 Knowing and understanding applicable regulations

 Identifying the waste stream

 Evaluating the on-site burial site

 Recognizing the environmental impact
On-site Burial Module 11 | P a g e

Evaluation Lesson Contents

This lesson presents the following information: 

 Regulations – Covers many of the key regulations governing burial

 Waste Stream Evaluation – Contains questions to assess the material on the 

infected premises to determine suitable management options

 Burial Site Evaluation –Includes factors to determine if a site is suitable for onsite 

burial

 Environmental Impact – Includes a discussion of potential environmental 

impacts, important biosecurity considerations, and public health considerations
On-site Burial Module 12 | P a g e

Regulations

Depending on the circumstances, carcasses resulting from an animal disease outbreak 

may be considered solid waste or infectious waste. It is important to consult with 

experienced personnel familiar with all disposal regulations in the affected areas when 

determining if unlined burial is a feasible carcass management option at a particular 

site. Applicable laws and regulations may include:

 Clean Air Act for air emissions

 The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set 

requirements and recommendations for those engaged in hazardous waste 

operations involving disease-causing organisms (29 CFR 1910)

 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) for solid waste processing 

 Use of personal protective equipment in hazardous waste operations can be 

found at 29 CFR 1910.134 and 29 CFR 1910.156

 Title 40 CFR 262.11 requires any person generating waste must determine if that 

waste is hazardous and follow strict protocols if it is 

 State Departments of Health issue regulations that determine which wastes are 

considered ‘regulated’ or require special handling. Check the Regulated Medical 

Waste RMW State Locator to find the classifications. 

 Consult with the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Web 

Soil Survey and appropriate State agencies to obtain soil maps 
On-site Burial Module 13 | P a g e

Regulations (cont.)

All waste materials slated for management and/or transport must be correctly classified 

by an experienced waste manager prior to assure that appropriate carcass 

management and transportation methods are selected. The classification of the waste 

will depend upon the specific type of incident and the federal agency with primary 

authority. 

Below are some of the considerations for classifying and transporting waste:

 Solid waste - Most animal related waste generated during a response to an 

animal health incident will be classified as solid waste for management purposes, 

unless the waste is infected with highly dangerous organisms, in which case it 

would be an infectious waste

 Medical and infectious (solid) waste - A portion of the waste material associated 

with a response to an animal health emergency may be classified as medical 

and/or infectious waste, such as used sharps or needles, and will be subject to 

state regulations

 Hazardous materials - When carcasses are moved in commerce (under US 

Department of Transportation authority), infectious material (including carcasses, 

bedding, etc. which can cause disease or death in animals or humans) is 

classified as hazardous material unless a special classification is obtained. 

Hazardous material will require special packaging, manifesting, and transport to 

an appropriate facility approved to accept the materials. 

 Permitted Movement – When infected carcasses are permitted to move under 

APHIS/state authority, they will require:

 DOT designation as hazardous material in compliance with 49 CFR 105.5

and 49 CFR 173.134, as well as, other related 49 CFR requirements, and

 Compliance with incident-specific state and federal requirements for 

biosecurity, transport method, chain of custody, and cleaning/disinfection

(e.g., using VS Form 1-27)

 Refer to the NAHEMS Guidelines: Quarantine and Movement Control for 

additional information
On-site Burial Module 14 | P a g e

Waste Stream Evaluation 

The following are issues one should consider before starting on-site burial activities:

 What types of infected material?

 Carcass: type, size, number and condition 

 In-barn manure/litter: type, volume, moisture content, density 

 Stored manure/litter: type, volume, moisture content, density 

 Feed? Quantity and location

 Eggs? Quantity and condition

 Bedding? Non-infected manure compost? 

 Paper products? Other debris? 

 How much material needs to be buried? 

 If there is more material than on-site burial can handle, off-site carcass 

management may be required 

 The material from a large outbreak may have to be sent to multiple off-site 

locations as capacities are reached
On-site Burial Module 15 | P a g e

Burial Site Evaluation

A number of important factors will affect the decision to use on-site burial as a carcass 

management option. These may include:

 Is an agreement with the state or regulations already in place that allows on-site 

burial? 

 Does the applicable permitting authority allow on-site burial?

 Can the permit conditions be met?

 Who owns the land or facility? Will the owner allow burial on their property? 

 Do state regulations require deed recordation of the burial pit or trench?

 Does the owner have labor and equipment to assist with burial? 

 Is the site completely secure at all times? What security measures are in place? 

Procedures must be in place to prevent the disturbance of animal carcasses prior 

to management (e.g., fencing surrounding the facility).

 What actions will be taken to reduce odor and vermin? Ensuring that the 

operation is following regulations and procedures effectively is important to avoid 

any negative publicity surrounding the carcass management activities.
On-site Burial Module 16 | P a g e

Evaluation Questions

Below are some additional considerations that should be weighed in selecting a burial

site. 

 Are climatic and weather factors suitable? (e.g., is the soil too wet or frozen to be 

worked, or will the prevailing winds and odors disturb neighbors?)

 Is the proposed site near water bodies, wells, roadways, public areas, dwellings, 

residences, municipalities, or property lines? If so, consider another site.

 Are measures taken to ensure no underground lines or other hazards are present 

where digging is proposed? Contact local utility location service before digging if 

applicable.

 Will additional backfill be required to prevent pooling of water at the burial site 

due to site settlement? If so, be sure it is readily available.

 Are there suitable soil conditions and depth to the seasonal high water table? 

Refer to NRCS Web Soil Survey.

 Consider using an Above-Ground Burial method (G. Flory, et al, Virginia DEQ) to 

minimize impacts to groundwater. Aboveground Burial offers benefits over 

traditional burial methods because carcasses decompose more rapidly in a 

shallow, biologically active zone and the practice provides greater separation

from groundwater resources.

Figure 3. Cross Section of Aboveground Burial System
On-site Burial Module 17 | P a g e

Environmental Impact

Burial of carcasses results in decomposition processes that can take many years to 

occur depending on temperature, moisture, burial depth, soil type and permeability, 

humidity, and rainfall. 

 The decomposition process releases gases and leachate which may contain 

biological and chemical contaminants

 Leachate can migrate to groundwater and surface water contaminating it 

with pathogens and chemical compounds which can cause illness 

 Contaminated groundwater can discharge to surface water, spreading the 

pathogen and disease

 The leachate contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus which can pose a 

risk to human and environmental health

 EPA standard for nitrates in drinking water is 10.0 mg/L. Carcass burial 

sites can generate over 1000 times the standard. 

 Nitrate contaminated drinking water used to prepare infant formula is a 

risk factor for infant methemoglobinemia (develop a blue-gray skin color) 

which can be fatal 

 Nitrogen is toxic to aquatic life. It depletes dissolved oxygen in receiving 

waters and stimulates aquatic plant growth (eutrophication).
On-site Burial Module 18 | P a g e

Environmental Impact (cont.)

 Air pollution is another potential environmental impact resulting from the 

anaerobic decomposition of carcasses

 Methane is an explosive gas; methane and carbon dioxide are 

greenhouse gases which may contribute to climate change. Hydrogen 

sulfide is very malodorous, and some states also have air quality 

standards for hydrogen sulfide concentrations. Additionally, the 

decomposition of carcasses can lead to creation and emission of volatile 

organic compounds, many of which are also odorous.

 Gases must be monitored on a routine basis for potential health hazards 

to workers and the public living around the sites

Figure 4. On-site Burial Potential Risks (Click on Image to Enlarge It)
On-site Burial Module 19 | P a g e

Environmental Impact Questions

The following questions can help you evaluate the site for disposing of infected 

carcasses:

 Is the burial site the required distance from sensitive areas? Is there sufficient 

distance from the burial site to groundwater wells and surface waters to prevent 

environmental harm? 

 Does the distance to surface and groundwater take into account site-specific soil 

characteristics? Contact the local Natural Resources Conservation Service office

for assistance.

 Will practices ensure groundwater is not contaminated by conventional 

pollutants, such as total dissolved solids and ammonia?

 Will use of a liner system be considered where site-specific conditions do not 

protect the environment?

 Will carcasses rise to the surface after burial, due to fluctuating groundwater 

levels? How will this be prevented?

 Is the premises in compliance with all permit requirements?

 Does record keeping meet the regulatory requirements? 

 Who will keep the records?

 This is important to identify who may be legally liable, in case there is an 

environmental release in the future 

Figure 5. Example Burial Site Location
On-site Burial Module 20 | P a g e

Biosecurity 

Biosecurity is a series of management practices designed to prevent the introduction 

and spread of disease agents on an animal production facility. During an animal disease 

emergency, biosecurity measures are necessary to keep disease agents out of healthy 

livestock and poultry populations and prevent the spread of disease agents from 

infected groups to uninfected groups within the same population.

Below are some biosecurity considerations. For more comprehensive biosecurity 

information, refer to the Biosecurity Module.

 Plans must be in place to prevent disease spread during transportation of 

carcasses, even if the transport occurs from one part of the farm to another. For 

more information see the Secure Transport Module.

 Workers who handle infectious carcasses need to take proper precautions and 

should be equipped with appropriate PPE in accordance with site-specific plans. 

Refer to the Health, Safety, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Module.

 In cooperation with appropriate public health agencies, personnel should be 

monitored afterward for signs of illness if the pathogen of concern is potentially 

zoonotic 

 Proper storage for carcasses should prevent scavenging by wildlife and access 

by other vectors

 Proper storage should prevent release of leachate to the environment

NOTE

The agent causing the disease may not be the only agent that poses a risk to 

personnel. Other potential risks may occur from Salmonella, Campylobacter, Q 

fever and coliforms.
On-site Burial Module 21 | P a g e

Public Health Considerations

A comprehensive understanding of the type and strain of pathogen associated with the 

animal disease event is essential to prevent further spread of infection and to safeguard 

human, animal, and environmental safety and security. Biosecurity measures along with 

cleaning and disinfection protocols will be governed by the type and strain of pathogen 

present.

 Care must be taken to conduct operations in such a manner that public health is 

protected

 On-site burial will also require transportation of potentially contaminated biomass 

from the barn or pasture to the burial site. If public roads are used, there may be

additional public questions which will need to be answered.

 Heightened public health concerns will exist and must be addressed when 

dealing with a zoonotic disease agent 

 Carcasses infected with spore forming bacteria (such as the Bacillus anthracis, 

the bacteria which cause anthrax) may not be candidates for burial and 

incineration should be strongly considered as an option

 Burial may not be a suitable option, depending on the soil types, for animals 

infected with or exposed to a disease agents responsible for Transmissible 

Spongiform Encephalopathy (TSE) (E.g., Scrapie, Bovine Spongiform 

Encephalopathy, & Chronic Wasting Disease) 
On-site Burial Module 22 | P a g e

Public Health Questions 

The following questions will help evaluate the public health concerns associated with 

on-site burial activities:

 Are there event and site-specific health and safety plans for the operators that 

are approved by a credentialed Safety Officer?

 Are on-site burial operators trained in proper handling of potentially infectious 

material and the requirements of the health and safety plan? If not, will 

specialized operators be available for temporary service at the on-site burial site?

 Is employee health and safety monitored and are health and safety rules 

enforced? If the contaminant poses an increased health risk to employees, it is 

important that personnel use required protection and are monitored regularly by 

healthcare workers to ensure they are not exhibiting effects of exposure.

 Do the carcasses, by-products, and/or eggs need to be processed in any fashion 

before management? For example, with trench burial operations, preprocessing 

or venting of carcasses may be necessary prior to burial.

 Is the pathogen of concern likely to survive in the on-site burial leachate? 

 Will groundwater monitoring be required?
On-site Burial Module 23 | P a g e

Planning Lesson Overview

This lesson contains information to help you plan for on-site burial of carcasses 

resulting from an animal health emergency. Planning is essential to ensure that the task 

is carried out efficiently and unimpeded by a lack of resources. Successful management 

of a large number of contaminated animal carcasses requires proper planning to protect 

workers, the general public, susceptible animals, and the environment.

Important considerations include:

 Classifying and characterizing the waste material 

 Identifying suitable on-site burial sites

 Finding adequate carcass storage facilities

 Assessing availability of secure transportation
On-site Burial Module 24 | P a g e

Planning Lesson Contents

The material in this lesson is divided into the following sections:

 Personnel – Highlights requirements and related issues associated with 

personnel involved with the carcass management activities 

 Waste Classification – Discusses the procedures necessary to clearly identify 

and describe the material being disposed

 Materials, Supplies, and Equipment– Provides a list of equipment and supplies 

which might be needed for on-site burial 

 Secure Transportation – Presents important questions to consider before 

transporting carcasses 

 Site Suitability – Describes planning considerations for selecting and using an 

on-site burial site

Figure 6. Briefing the Carcass Management Team
On-site Burial Module 25 | P a g e

Personnel

There are certain personnel planning aspects that are common to all carcass 

management options. Those aspects include human health and safety, biosecurity, and 

physical security, as described below.

 Health and safety – Planning to implement on-site burial as a carcass 

management option should include measures to protect workers and the public 

from hazards associated with loading infected materials for transport, 

transporting the materials, and disposing materials at the on-site burial site. Refer 

to the Health, Safety, & PPE Module.

 Biosecurity – Use of on-site burial must include strict biosecurity measures to 

minimize disease spread when transporting and handling infected materials. 

Refer to the Biosecurity Module and Secure Transport Module.

 Physical Security – Planning efforts should consider security of personnel at the

infected premises, security of infected material during transport, and security at 

the burial site. Below are some ideas for minimizing physical security risks: 

 Providing a single entry point to the infected premises

 Providing badges to all authorized personnel entering the infected 

premises

 Signing in and out of the premises

 Sealing truckloads at the origin and ensuring the seals are unbroken at the 

destination
On-site Burial Module 26 | P a g e

Waste Classification and Characterization

Classification is a determining factor in considering whether a proposed facility is 

permitted to accept the waste. Because regulations may vary between states, do not 

assume all states’ waste classification regulations are similar. This is particularly 

relevant if waste generated during a response is transported across state lines. Consult 

a certified waste management professional when classifying waste.

Response personnel should perform the following:

 Identify all waste materials designated for management (in accordance with the 

site-specific carcass management plan, if available). For more information, refer 

to the Emergency Management Tools Module.

 Mark waste materials and verify with the Disposal Group Supervisor that all

designated materials are to be disposed of

 Sort materials by type (recyclables, putrescible waste, debris, and potentially

hazardous waste)

 Stage the various waste materials in suitable areas and containerize putrescible 

or wet materials to avoid leaching to the environment. Waste materials may 

require tarp or shelter covering.

 Estimate the quantities of each waste type and record the information 

 Characterize each waste type in accordance with all applicable local, state, and 

federal regulations

 Improper waste management can result in penalties (fines or 

imprisonment)

 Improperly disposed waste creates environmental contamination, and 

clean-up liabilities may also be incurred

 Document the characteristics of each waste type and label all waste types

in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements
On-site Burial Module 27 | P a g e

Materials, Supplies, and Equipment

The Disposal Group must identify all necessary materials, supplies, and equipment to 

carry out the chosen site-specific management method(s). 

The list is provided as an example of the types of materials, supplies, and equipment 

which might be needed for on-site burial: 

 Personal protective equipment 

 Personnel, supply, and equipment decontamination equipment

 Secure transport equipment (driven by trained drivers) to deliver carcasses from 

the pens/pastures/barns to the burial location

 Vehicle cleaning and disinfection equipment

 Vehicle liners, such as plastic sheeting or specialized bags

 Loading equipment

 Absorbent material to prevent leakage from transport equipment

 Regulatory authority approved containers, such as sharps containers that are 

puncture-resistant and leak-proof

 Bio hazardous waste bags and containers, if applicable. Note: use biohazard 

bags only for identified biohazard waste. Putting non-biohazard waste into 

biohazard bags results in excess expenses for carcass management.

Biohazard Waste

Includes plastic ware such as pipettes or pipette tips, culture plates, specimen vials, etc. 

that are contaminated with biological specimens, bacterial and cell culture material, or 

nucleic acids. It also includes towels and bench paper that are biologically contaminated 

(i.e., used where samples or cultures are opened and manipulated). It may also include 

culture or sample containers (e.g. plastic tubes of blood) that are contaminated with 

biological materials. The categories are based on the UN assigned by the United 

Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UNECE).
On-site Burial Module 28 | P a g e

Material, Supplies, and Equipment (cont.)

Equipment requirements may include:

 Excavators which are:

o Typically used to dig and/or fill burial trenches

o Self-propelled, large, mounted on tracks with a boom (arm) and bucket; 

sometimes called a trackhoe 

o Can (a) construct a long, deep, vertical-walled trench efficiently; (b) store 

topsoil separately from subsoil; (c) fill a pit with carcasses or other 

materials and close it without disturbing the carcasses; and (d) cause 

comparatively little site disturbance

 Loaders, bulldozers, road graders, and backhoes 

o These tend to be less efficient and involve continual movement over the 

site, causing relatively greater damage to the site

 Holding pen(s) for confining animals prior to euthanasia should be available near 

the burial site

 Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates should be used to record the 

location of each burial site

Figure 7. Example Supplies Needed for Cleaning and Disinfection 
On-site Burial Module 29 | P a g e

Temporary Carcass Storage

When the Euthanasia Group generates mortalities at a faster rate than the Disposal 

Group can process them, some means of temporary carcass storage must be provided. 

It is important to identify where carcasses can be collected and stored until carcass 

management can commence. Guidance related to storage and collection of solid waste 

which may have some relevance to carcass collection and staging, refer to 40 CFR 

243.200-1(a).

Considerations for temporary storage include:

 Can the storage area be secured to prevent unauthorized access, scavengers, 

odors, rapid decomposition, and potential disease spread to susceptible species?

 Will the carcasses be stored using refrigeration or some other stabilization 

method such as grinding and preserving them in containers? 

o If so, are the equipment, supplies and materials available?

o Can the equipment be cleaned and disinfected?

 Will the storage capacity be sufficient to accommodate the difference between 

the maximum expected euthanasia rate and the maximum carcass management

rate? 

o If not, avoid euthanizing animals at a rate that exceeds management and 

storage capacity

o When maximum carcass management and storage capacities are 

reached, curtail euthanasia until adequate capacity is available

o Consult with Incident Coordination Group leadership for strategies to 

minimize the number of animals to be euthanized and managed
On-site Burial Module 30 | P a g e

Secure Transportation

Transport vehicles will be needed to move carcasses and other materials to the burial

site, even if it’s on the same premises as the animals. If the waste must travel on public 

roads, it should be transported in closed, leak-resistant and/or lined trucks or 

dumpsters. Secondary containment may be needed, depending on the type of waste 

being transported. Consult a certified waste management professional when developing 

this section of the carcass management plan. Some transport planning considerations 

are listed below:

 Are haulers to be used for the response properly equipped to haul carcasses in 

accordance with all applicable laws?

 Are transport vehicles designed to handle the materials to be transported?

 Are the drivers adequately trained in biosecurity?

 Can two-way communications be maintained with the hauler during transport?

 Do shipments require law enforcement escorts?

 Will travel routes from the premises to the carcass management site avoid 

uninfected farms, road construction, neighborhoods, and densely populated 

areas?

 Has an alternate travel route been identified?

 What procedures will be followed if the vehicle is damaged during transit?

 How is the waste classified for transport? What packaging standards apply? Are 

all standards consistently met, including labeling, placarding, and manifesting, if 

required?

 How will transport vehicle traffic be minimized into the Control Area?

For more information, refer to the Secure Transport Module.
On-site Burial Module 31 | P a g e

Site Suitability

Members of the carcass management team must contact or visit the premises and/or 

the appropriate state regulatory authorities to ensure on-site burial is accomplished in 

accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. 

During an animal disease outbreak, the carcass management team should consider the 

following: 

 Soil properties (texture, permeability, surface fragments, depth to water table, 

and depth to bedrock)

 Slope or topography

 Hydrologic properties

 Proximity to water bodies, wells, public areas, roadways, dwellings, residences, 

municipalities, or property lines

 Accessibility

 Subsequent intended use of site

In states where carcass management is regulated, trench burial is frequently one of the 

options allowed. However, state regulations vary considerably in terms of specific 

criteria required for a suitable burial site. 
On-site Burial Module 32 | P a g e

Operations Lesson Overview

This lesson contains general procedures in preparing for and managing carcasses by 

utilizing on-site burial. The following topics will be addressed: 

 On-site burial preparation

 Health and safety

 On-site burial operations

Critical steps used during recent U.S. animal disease outbreaks are also included.

Figure 8. Carcass Management Team Wearing PPE
On-site Burial Module 33 | P a g e

Operations Lesson Contents

The material in this lesson is presented in a step-wise manner that provides detailed 

instructions and key steps based on the criteria and measures instituted during recent 

U.S. animal disease outbreak responses.

 Incident Management – Provides general guidelines to the Disposal Group 

personnel when dealing with an animal emergency situation

 Infected Premises Preparation – Lists steps for assessing facility readiness to 

begin operations

 On-site Burial Operations – Describes procedures for safe and proper carcass 

management using on-site burial 
On-site Burial Module 34 | P a g e

Incident Management

All Disposal Group personnel should familiarize themselves with the approved sitespecific carcass management plan. The Disposal Group Supervisor should review the 

plan with the Disposal Group and brief them on all relevant aspects of the carcass 

management effort. For further guidance, refer to FAD PReP APHIS Foreign Animal 

Disease Framework: Roles and Coordination.

1. The Incident Coordination Group (ICG) / Incident Management Team (IMT) 

should ensure there is a system in place to identify carcass management team

members with the required expertise.

2. The Disposal Group Supervisor, Disposal Coordinator, or other assigned official 

should verify credentials, training, and security clearances and arrange just-intime training for carcass management team members.

3. The Disposal Group Supervisor should prepare briefings and reports for the 

Operations Section Chief.

4. The Safety Officer should brief all responders on safety precautions and will 

provide a briefing on the nature of the disease and other circumstances affecting 

the response.

5. The Safety Officer or Biosecurity Officer should brief all responders on 

biosecurity protocols.

6. Plans should be developed to be sure that all onsite carcass management 

related personnel are briefed on safety requirements, site conditions, and tasks.

7. The Public Information personnel should develop material, such as Frequently 

Asked Questions, to address public concerns.
On-site Burial Module 35 | P a g e

Infected Premises Preparation

1. Consult with local, county, state, and federal environmental officials to obtain 

specific information for the region or community in order to minimize any negative 

environmental effects associated with the management of contaminated material.

2. Determine all applicable public health or environmental protection laws, including 

fire codes and other regulations. 

3. Consider regional climate and seasonal trends (e.g., general direction of 

prevailing winds, precipitation, thermal factors).

4. Verify the availability of adequate carcass storage facilities such as refrigerated 

rooms, transport vehicles, freezers or other means of carcass preservation if 

needed.

5. Identify haulers who:

 Are equipped to haul carcasses in accordance with State and Federal 

laws

 Can provide secure, leak resistant, transport for the infected carcasses 

and contaminated materials

 Possess vehicles in good mechanical condition and capable of carrying 

the load without difficulty

 Have vehicles which can be covered with a tarpaulin if they do not have 

closed tops

 Employ licensed drivers adequately trained (see 49 CFR 172 and 49 CFR 

173 for further guidance)

 Have an emergency plan which addresses spills/excess leakage; vehicle 

break-downs; traffic accidents; adverse weather conditions; terrorist 

attacks

6. Review State and local regulations regarding burial. Individual States regulate 

the parameters for burial (e.g., quantity of carcasses, depth to water table, and 

distance to wells, surface water, and property lines).

7. Obtain information from the USDA NRCS Web Soil Survey such as soil maps, 

and seasonal water table data.

8. If the WSS data indicates the site is suitable for carcass burial, consider 

obtaining the services of an environmental professional, such as a Professional 

Geologist or Professional Engineer to collect at least three soil borings at the site 

to confirm the site is suitable. Soil boring depths shall extend the water table. 

Extend soil boring depths to the water table or a minimum of 10 feet below the 

trench bottom.
On-site Burial Module 36 | P a g e

Infected Premises Preparation (cont.)

9. Trench burial has the potential to impact groundwater and generate offensive 

odors, requiring the water table to be deep and the soil impermeable. Using the 

soil logs, perform hydrogeological and contaminant transport modeling to assess 

the likelihood of the burial site contaminating drinking water aquifers.

10.Consult with appropriate State regulatory agencies about permits for potential 

sites before initiating operations.

11.Excavation should not be performed near existing structures such as buildings 

and roads, because it can undermine structural stability and cause structures to 

collapse.

12.Have underground utilities located and marked prior to beginning any excavation.

13.Verify the site is large enough for on-site burial of the carcasses based on 

calculations 

 For mass burial, select a cross-sectional geometry (rectangular or 

trapezoidal)

 When excavating to more than 5 feet (about 1.5 meters) deep, prepare the 

side slopes with a minimum ratio of 1.5 (horizontal) to 1 (vertical)

 Care must be taken to slope the sides of the trench or shore them up to 

avoid cave-ins

 Place the carcasses in the trenches or pits

 Cover the carcasses with a minimum of 2.5-3 feet of soil, depending on 

local requirements

 Be sure to mound the soil above the ground level to account for future 

settling of the material

 Determine the length of the trench from the cross-sectional area of the 

trench geometry. The ratio of trench volume to carcass volume should be 

4:1 for burying one to two layers of large carcasses (1,000 pounds [about 

450 kilograms] or more) and 2:1 for burial of two to three layers of 

medium-sized or small carcasses. 
On-site Burial Module 37 | P a g e

Infected Premises Preparation (cont.)

Figure 9. Length Calculation for Burial of 100 Cattle

14.Verify the site is accessible to carcass hauling trucks and heavy equipment.

15.Design the excavation size, depth, and side slope angles to prevent cave-ins.

16.Prepare and maintain a list of names and contact information for heavy 

machinery operators, fire department personnel, law enforcement, public works 

departments, departments of transportation, and regulatory agencies. This 

information can be incorporated into the site specific carcass management plan, 

sometimes referred to as an emergency action plan.

17.Contract with local heavy equipment suppliers and operators to deliver, operate, 

fuel, and maintain needed heavy equipment.

18.Contract for carcass storage equipment and/or services if needed.

19.Ensure that personnel who will be operating the heavy equipment are properly 

certified in the use of the equipment.

20.Train carcass management personnel on safety, biosecurity, and operational 

procedures in accordance with the site specific carcass management plan.

Assumptions

1 - Average weight of carcass = 1,000 lb.

2 - Bulk density of carcass = about 62.4 lb./ft.3 

3 - Volume ratio for a two-layer or one-layer burial trench = 4 ft.3 of trench/ft.3 of 

carcass

4 - Trench depths for one layer and two layers = 4 ft. (shallow trench) and 8 ft. (deep 

trench), respectively

5 - Trench width for both cases = 6 ft.; two carcasses lie side by side

6 - Length of each cattle carcass = about 5 ft.

Solutions

A. Deep trench 

1 - Trench length in a deep trench = {(100 cattle)*(1,000 lb./cattle) (4 volume ratio)} ÷ 

{(62.4 lb./ft.3) (8 ft. deep) (6 ft. wide)} about 130 ft.

2 - Number of buried cattle in two layers and two rows = {(130 ft.)*(2 layers)*(2 rows)} 

÷ (5 ft. length/carcass) = 104 carcasses

B. Shallow trench 

1 - Trench length in shallow trench = {(100 cattle)*(1,000 lb./cattle) (4 volume ratio)} 

÷ (62.4 lb./ft.3)(4 ft. deep) (6 ft. wide)} about 260 ft.

2 - Number of buried cattle in one layer and two rows = {(260 ft.)*(2 rows)} ÷ (5ft.

long/carcass) = 104 carcasses
On-site Burial Module 38 | P a g e

On-site Burial Operations 

Conducting Unlined Burial

1. Obtain all appropriate permits and approvals, including landowner’s permission 

and acceptance of long-term environmental liability, to begin burial.

2. Don all required PPE as detailed in the Site-Specific Health and Safety Plan

(HASP). APHIS employees should refer to the APHIS Emergency Management, 

Safety and Security Division and Veterinary Services EMSSD website for more 

information.

3. Flag or stake the burial site.

4. Obtain the heavy equipment and machinery (trackhoe, backhoe, scraper, 

bulldozer, or other equipment) required for excavating.

5. Excavate the appropriate sized trench based on the excavation design 

parameters.

6. Excavation should not be performed near existing structures such as buildings 

and roads, because it can undermine structural stability and cause structures to 

collapse.

7. Consider puncturing/venting the carcasses to minimize the likelihood of gas-filled

carcasses emerging from the soil cover.

8. Place carcasses in the trench.

9. Cover the carcasses with the excavated earth, being sure to grade the surface 

soil to facilitate runoff.

10.Stabilize the surface of the excavated area in accordance with local requirements 

to minimize soil erosion.

11.Thoroughly clean and disinfect all of the disposal equipment. See the FAD PReP 

SOP15: Cleaning and Disinfection and FAD PReP SOPs: Biosecurity.

12.Regularly inspect and maintain the site by adding additional backfill to prevent

pooling of water if necessary.

13.Highly recommended: monitor groundwater quality down gradient of the burial 

site(s) to ensure the ongoing safety of ground water.
On-site Burial Module 39 | P a g e

Summary

Congratulations! You have completed the On-site Burial Module. In this module, you 

have learned to:

 Describe on-site burial, including lined and unlined trench or pit methods

 Identify the advantages and disadvantages of on-site burial 

 Identify personnel health risks associated with on-site burial 

 Consider environmental risks associated with on-site burial

 Obtain regulations governing on-site burial by consulting with state officials

 Identify factors used to evaluate on-site burial as a carcass management option

 List critical elements when planning on-site burial

 Recognize key components of on-site burial operations

Please click here to download the certificate of completion for this module. You can 

enter your name on the certificate and save or print it for your records.