Manure Management

Horse farm management has changed through the years. Manure used to routinely be used as a fertilizer for crops and pastures.

Times have changed, however, and some areas of the country are now actually requiring removal of manure from the farm. As horses have moved from a source of transportation and work to pleasure and recreation, farms have generally decreased in acreage, creating a manure usage and disposal problem.

To further add to the manure problem, the county's population has steadily increased. Marion County is renowned for its beautiful and pristine springs. Unfortunately, almost everything which hits the ground can potentially impact the quality of these springs and the aquifers - and manure is no exception. Below is a list of steps based on 'Best Management Practices' (BMPs) that have been field-tested and researched as practical ways for effectively handle horse manure in a way that will not adversely affect anything or anyone.

Ways of Correctly Dealing With Manure

• Spread with a manure spreader, but be careful not to spread too thickly or within 100 feet of any water body and sinkhole.
  
  
• Stockpiling of manure that is not part of a composting system should be avoided unless getting picked up for removal. Stockpiled manure must be removed at least once every three months. Be careful to keep manure piles 100 feet from any neighboring properties, sinkholes or water bodies.
  
  
• Composting manure is an excellent way to effectively deal with your manure.  It is a tremendous soil amendment and slow-release fertilizer.  Again, please be sure to avoid any neighbors when constructing a compost facility. For information on setting up a composting system, contact the Marion County Extension Service.