The Sconi

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is urging farmers to check the runoff risk advisory forecast before spreading manure. The forecast provides a map that shows short-term runoff risks based on soil saturation, temperature, and precipitation. This information is updated four times daily by the National Weather Service.

Andrea Topper, DATCP nutrient management outreach specialist, explained the importance of the forecast: “The runoff risk advisory forecast projects three days into the future during the summer months and looks 10 days ahead in winter and spring. The 10-day forecast is especially helpful since manure applications are unincorporated and exposed on the surface for a longer period of time." She added that snow melt or heavy rainfall could easily move unincorporated manure off fields, emphasizing proactive use of this tool along with a Nutrient Management Plan.

Farmers are advised to consult crop consultants, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), or county land conservation offices for alternatives to high-risk spreading. These experts can help identify safer fields and alternative practices like stacking manure safely. Contact details for local county land conservation offices are available online.

Kevin Erb from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension highlighted operator error as a major cause of manure spills: “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." He stressed safety measures and equipment maintenance as ways to mitigate accidental spills, noting that while accidental spills are not illegal, failing to report or clean them up properly is.

All agricultural operations must report any spills or runoff affecting water to DNR's emergency hotline at (800) 943-0003. Further planning and prevention information can be accessed online.