This pollution is of public concern. Some streams are overloaded with wastes from livestock facilities, industries, cities, villages, and individual homes. Attention has been drawn to livestock waste pollution by publicity on pollution problems, increased public awareness due to suburban encroachment in rural areas, and increased emphasis on controlling all sources of pollution. The rights of others to clean water and air should be allowed, just as landowners desire clean water and a pleasant environment. New techniques and better management will reduce problems for livestock owners in controlling pollution.
Management is the key to pollution control when operating animal facilities.
Livestock owners should choose a manure-handling system that most nearly matches their individual resources, including their abilities and desire to operate the system. This Extension bulletin provides information to help the livestock owner or operator make informed decisions in choosing and operating a livestock manure-handling system that will minimize environmental impacts from pollution. Beyond the concern for pollution control and compliance with state and federal standards, livestock producers are generally interested in animal manure's fertilizer value. Fortunately, using manure nutrients in crop production is a practical method of controlling pollution. So, the value of manure as a source of plant nutrients should always be given strong consideration in animal manure management systems.