Common Animal Production Systems and Manure Storage Methods

Abstract

Livestock and poultry are raised using production practices that depend on species, animal age, stage of production, products produced and climate. Manure collection, handling and storage are also done in different ways. The result is a myriad of livestock and poultry production systems that incorporate manure storage. This chapter focuses on animal feeding operations that incorporate some type of manure storage. Manure storage is one part of the manure collection, handling, and storage system that livestock and poultry producers use to manage the nutrients in the manure. The chapter describes common systems for swine, poultry, dairy, and beef production. It discusses common production phases, waste sources, manure form (i.e., solid, slurry or liquid), collection, and storage option. Dairy operations can generate manure and wastewater that can be handled as a solid, slurry, or a liquid. Solid manure can be stored in uncovered stacks on impervious surfaces that prevent nutrient leaching into the soil.