Am I planning manure applications to limit odor nuisance?

Odor is one of the most common causes of neighbors’ complaints. As a farmer, you have several possibilities for minimizing odor problems. In Which neighbors are at greatest risk to odor/dust? you can find information related to understanding how prevalent wind direction, frequency, and intensity can be used to predict odor movement.

During land application season, try to apply in the morning to allow for maximum drying. Remember that night air tends to trap odors. Be extra careful when land applying in fields close to neighbors and keep up good communication with them. Inform your neighbors of your application calendar and be flexible to avoid days when they may be most impacted by odors – like special outdoor events or holidays.

The Nebraska Odor Footprint Tool allows producers to predict prevailing odor trends around a livestock operation using regional weather records, tolerance levels for odor, and local terrain. This tool can help you make decisions for how far to set separation distances, compare odor control technologies and understand odor dynamics for your actual or future animal operation.

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