Runoff Control Comparisons for Commercial Beef Cattle Feedlots

Abstract

ABSTRACT BASIC structures in runoff control systems for feed-lots with high pollution potential consist of a sediment basin, a holding pond, and a disposal area (Boesch et al., 1973; Madden et al., 1971; Miner 1966; and Swanson et al., 1971). When properly managed, such a system provides adequate environmental protec-tion. This protection, however, is affected by the methods used to remove and dispose of settled solids from the sediment basin and liquid from the holding pond. Methods for applying holding pond effluent to crop-land and its effects on the crop have been reported (Linderman 1975; Nienaber et al., 1974; Swanson et al., 1974). Eisenhauer (1973) reported that the quality of runoff from a low permeability grassed disposal area was not affected by the application of holding pond effluent. McCaskey (1971), however, measured a significant increase in pollution in precipitation runoff from small plots where dairy barn waste had been applied.