Agricultural waste management

Last updated on September 22, 2023

There are various wastes, that are produced and used on the farm. From manure to compost or wood residues, the implementation of effective waste management practices and solutions will contribute to the preservation of our environment and provide tangible benefits to the farm.
 

 

Manure management

Responsible waste management practices include proper manure management techniques. Manure is a by-product of livestock operations and it can be used as a nutrient input for crop production.
 

 

Nutrient recovery

Nutrient recovery technologies allow farmers to recover nutrients and provide opportunities to reduce a farm’s nutrient surplus.

 

Earthen basin leakage testing

All earthen lagoons in vulnerable aquifer recharge areas need to be tested for leaks by February 28, 2021.
 

 

Compost management

Composting is a controlled process in which agricultural wastes (known as by-products) such as manure and waste feed are mixed and managed in a manner that allows the material to aerobically break down and produce a high-quality soil amendment.
 

 

Wood residue management

Wood residues have many uses on the farm, but as it is a natural material, it is often overlooked as a potential source of contamination. All wood residues (ex. hog fuel, wood chips, sawdust, etc.) have the ability to produce a toxic leachate that can result in the contamination of domestic water sources and watercourses if improperly managed.
 

 

Mortality management

Mortalities are an unavoidable aspect of animal husbandry. Livestock and poultry producers may dispose of mortalities from their own farms through various means. Information is available on several options and technologies available for carcass disposal of poultry and livestock.
 

 

Renewable energy

There are various ways for farmers to produce renewable energy on the farm. It is important to note that every farm is distinct and what works for one farm may not work for another. Information is available for producing renewable natural gas and electricity on-farm.
 

 

Specified risk material

Specified risk material is the cattle tissue that can harbour the infective agent known as a prion, which causes Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) or Mad Cow Disease. Specified risk material is regulated federally under the Health of Animals Act and Regulations, and strict handling and disposal procedures are required if Specified Risk Material leaves the farm where the animals died.
 

 

 

 

Contact information

AgriService BC

Have a question?  Call or email and a staff person will assist you.

Telephone: 1 888 221-7141

E-mail: AgriServiceBC@gov.bc.ca

Website:  http://gov.bc.ca/agriservicebc