Why Sample Manure and Wastewater?
Manure and wastewater are valuable resources that can reduce fertilizer needs and help improve soil and your bottom line. Sampling and testing of manure and wastewater is needed so one can apply the manure and nutrients appropriately. There are also Animal Feeding Operation (AFO)/Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) regulations that require manure and wastewater testing.
Over-applying nutrients can contaminate the groundwater, which when consumed by children, can lead to blue baby syndrome and childhood cancers. It also increases the risk of nutrients being transported to surface waters, which can result in algae growth and fish kills. Manure and wastewater testing identifies the nutrient concentration and helps one determine appropriate application rates.