Liquid Manure Storage

Last updated on July 12, 2021

This page highlights requirements for the storage of liquid manure under the Code of Practice for Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM Code).  Liquid manure is raw or untreated liquid manure from livestock and may contain wastewater, soiled animal bedding, spoiled feed, or other solids.

The AEM Code also has storage requirements for other agricultural by-products, such as vegetative debris and composted material.

General rules

  • Store only in a permanent storage structure with a protective base (e.g., concrete pad, engineered compacted soil liner or synthetic liner)  and divert any runoff away from the area.
  • Liquid manure may be stored only if used on your land or the agricultural land base it was produced on.
  • Fill to no more than 30 centimetres below the top of the storage structure (minimum freeboard).
  • Ensure there is sufficient storage capacity until land-applied or transported off-site.
  • Collect and contain any contaminated runoff or leachate; prevent it from entering watercourses, crossing the property boundary or going below the water table.
  • Prevent wildlife, pests, and domestic pets from accessing the storage area.
  • Follow minimum setbacks from drinking water sources, watercourses, and property boundaries.

​Specific rules

 

Disclaimer: The information on this page is guidance only. Please refer to the Code of Practice for Agricultural Environmental Management for specific regulatory requirements.

Contact information

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