The drive mechanism for moving the nozzle through the field should be located remote from the nozzle to avoid fouling from manure. The large nozzle of the big gun allows most solids delivered by an aggressive chopper unit and industrial slurry pump to pass unimpeded, so big gun units can apply thicker slurries. Raw dairy manure diluted only with milking parlor effluent effectively has been distributed in this manner. More diluted slurries, often mixed with irrigation water, are commonly distributed through a variety of sprinkler systems with smaller nozzles. Diluted slurries can be handled through gated pipe and flood irrigation systems.
Unequal distribution is a problem with flood irrigation systems.
Measures designed to improve distribution of water such as surge flow systems also would enhance flood application of dilute livestock manure slurries. Nebraska requires a Department of Environmental Quality operating permit for irrigation systems distributing livestock manure or other byproducts that also are tied to a water source. Qualifying for a permit requires installing a check valve assembly on the irrigation system. This equipment is to be located between the water supply and the waste product point of injection. Manure solution discharge must be at least 20 feet from the irrigation water source.