Will my manure management system encourage neighborhood pests?
Livestock production operations should complete an Integrated Pest Management plan that will help to reduce pest risk in the operation and neighborhood. Manure storage, grain/feed storage and feeding structures can be pest sources; and they have to be ubicated, constructed and managed properly to prevent nuisance to neighbors.
Rodent-proof structures, drains and feeding equipment are important tools to prevent rodent’s proliferation. Appropriate practices for manure, bed and decaying organic wastes management in the farms must be considered to prevent insects and rodents.
Sanitation programs in all the production flows are key factors for pest control. Wet manure, bed material and feed are common vectors for pests; and practices to sanitize them will reduce pest residence. Flies are commonly associated with animal productions, and specific fly control measures are recommended.
Livestock managers must develop prevention and maintenance pest plans to mitigate potential pest problems and neighbor relationships. Nebraska Extension Wildlife provides control guides for animal pest commonly found in Nebraska. Also, UNL Department of Entomology has resources for insect pest control in livestock.
