Wisconsin Farmers Advised to Use Manure Runoff Tool

By Blake Jackson

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is reminding farmers and manure applicators to use the state’s runoff risk advisory forecast before applying manure to fields.

This essential tool helps users evaluate the potential for manure runoff based on current weather and soil conditions. Farmers can access the tool online at https://runoffriskadvisory.wi.gov.

The forecast provides detailed maps showing short-term runoff risks, incorporating factors such as soil saturation, temperature, and precipitation. These maps are updated four times daily using the latest data from the National Weather Service, offering reliable insights to guide manure management decisions.

“When applying manure, it is important to have a nutrient management plan that accurately identifies appropriate application rates and locations for spreading,” said Andrea Topper, DATCP nutrient management outreach specialist.

“The runoff risk advisory forecast can help farmers make more informed decisions and mitigate runoff potential by helping determine when the best time to spread is based on both current field conditions and short-term weather forecasts.”

Farmers facing high-risk spreading conditions are encouraged to seek advice from their crop consultant or county land conservation office to explore safer alternatives.

Larger operations holding a Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit can contact the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for assistance in identifying suitable fields or practices such as safely stacking manure.

DATCP also reminds manure haulers to prioritize safety on roadways to prevent spills and protect the environment. “Operator error accounts for a large share of the manure spills and incidents that occur between the farm and the field where manure is being applied,” said Kevin Erb, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension conservation professional training program manager.

“Taking the time to be safe and maintaining your equipment are two ways to reduce the risk of an accidental manure spill. An accidental spill is not illegal, but failing to properly report and clean it up is.”

All agricultural operations must report spills or runoff that could affect surface or groundwater by calling the DNR’s 24-hour emergency spills hotline at (800) 943-0003.