This risk can be greatly reduced with proper handling, storage, and timing of land application of manure. Although it is easiest to apply fertilizer by broadcasting it before planting and working it into the soil, this method increases the risk of leaching and runoff, particularly if followed by rainy weather. It is better to apply fertilizer at the time of seeding or, better yet, when plants are growing and at their peak of nutrient uptake. The survey found that fertilizer is most commonly applied with the seed in Canada as a whole, because this practice is common in the Prairies, which make up a large share of Canada's cropland. In all other regions broadcasting is still the most widely used application method.
Safe storage allows the producer to store manure until conditions are suitable for land application.
For example, applying manure in the fall and winter, when no plants are present to take up the nutrients, can lead to nutrient leaching and runoff. However, in regions with low precipitation, where soil conditions are suitable and storage volumes are adequate, there may be little risk posed by open storages that are lined. Open storages were the most widely used methods in 1995. Environmentally sound practices for applying manure include knowing the nutrient content of the manure. Basing manure applications on nitrogen often results in adding phosphorus in excess of crop needs, leading to phosphorus buildup in soils.