These systems are dependent on the amount of bedding and water dilution used by a specific operation.
Many dairies use more than one system.
For example, manure from dry cows and replacement heifers may be handled as a solid, whereas waste from free-stall barns, holding pens and milking parlors may be handled as a liquid, or solids may be separated from the liquid wastes so it can be used for other purposes. Slurry systems maximize recovery of plant nutrients from waste and are often used where geologic conditions are unsuitable for a lagoon system. These systems increase the volume of manure to be handled because of the higher water content, but allow the manure to be handled as a fluid. Lagoon systems are favored by many dairies because of lower cost relative to other systems. Lagoons are applicable where flushing is desired and where a significant amount of lot runoff must be contained.