Storage and application of livestock waste near water wells increases the risk of nitrate contamination Nitrates which infiltrate to potable water sources can cause severe health 40,000 problems for children who are less than six months old. Pollution Parameters Many individuals find it difficult to comprehend the pollution potential of livestock waste. Figure 1 compares the BOD5 of agricultural and municipal waste sources. Ammonia Nitrogen Ammonia nitrogen is an end product of anaerobic processes that take place in lagoons. When ammonia nitrogen enters a stream, it creates an added oxygen demand.
Livestock waste is even more concentrated.
Fecal Coliform Fecal coliform bacteria are common to the intestinal tract of man and animals. The effluent produced by a wastewater treatment facility must not exceed 400 fecal coliforms per 100 ml. Nitrates Nitrates are formed from organic nitrogen contained in manure. This transformation occurs through a series of biological processes. The nitrates which are formed are water soluble and readily move downward through the soil.