A Manure Management Survey of Minnesota Swine Producers: Summary of Responses

Abstract

Manure’s impact on the environment is a concern for both livestock producers and the general public. A survey of Minnesota swine producers was conducted to determine current manure handling systems and manure management practices. A questionnaire containing 36 questions was mailed to 699 Minnesota swine producers. Questions focused on manure collection, storage, and application systems, dead pig disposal, and swine housing system. Survey responses indicate: a) most producers market 2,000 pigs per year or fewer; b) most producers handle some manure as a solid; c) the majority of producers are not testing manure, calibrating manure application equipment, or keeping records of manure applications; d) surface application of manure is more common than subsurface injection; e) rendering and burial are the most common means of dead pig disposal.