With the growing diversity of land uses in rural areas - agricultural, residential, recreational – it is important to have tools that can provide objective information about air quality issues associated with livestock production. The Odor Footprint Tool (OFT) estimates the frequency of annoying odor events around an existing or proposed livestock facility and uses this information to determine minimum separation distances that should be maintained around those facilities and to help in siting decisions. Another use of the tool is to compare odor control technology options for a facility. The separation distances take into account the size and type of facilities on the site, use of proven odor control technology, regional weather records, prevailing tolerance levels for odor, and local terrain.

• Overview of the OFT – A number of resources are available to help you understand the value of visualizing a livestock facility's odor footprint, possible uses for the Odor Footprint Tool results, information you will need to use the tool and how to decide which version best fits your needs.
  • Overview information on the Odor Footprint Tool
  • Archived webinar on the Odor Footprint Tool and NAQSAT
  • Zoning: Implications of setback distances
  • Odor Footprint Tool poster
  • Odor Footprint Tool: Frequently Asked Questions
• Spreadsheet version of the OFT – Computer-based version simplifies determination of directional setback distances. This time-saving factor can be especially beneficial when several scenarios are being considered.
  • User's Manual for Spreadsheet version Step-by-step instructions for using the spreadsheet
  • OFT Spreadsheet(.xlsm)
• Worksheet version and Handouts for the OFT & Setback curves. User determines setback distances manually using a worksheet and graphs (a computer is not required once this resource is downloaded). The main advantage of using the worksheet version is that the contributing factors to odor emissions are more evident as the user goes through the steps to get directional setback distances, and this process helps identify where priority odor control should be focused.

This section of the Extension Water Web site has been authored/reviewed by Odor Management Team members Crystal Powers and Rick Stowell.