DATCP Reminds Farmers to Check the Runoff Risk Advisory Forecast

Wednesday, October 26th, 2022 -- 8:08 AM

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is reminding farmers and manure applicators to check the runoff risk advisory forecast before spreading manure on fields.

The tool helps determine the potential for manure runoff from a field depending on weather conditions and soil temperature. The runoff risk advisory forecast ​includes maps showing short-term runoff risk for manure application planning.

The maps account for soil saturation, temperature, and precipitation on a scale of 4km grids. The National Weather Service updates the forecast four times daily. For more information about nutrient management planning, visit https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/NutrientManagement.aspx.

Farmers should contact their crop consultant, county land conservation office, or the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for help identifying alternatives to high-risk spreading.

These professionals can help identify fields where the risk is lower and alternative practices, such as stacking manure in a safe location. DATCP reminds manure haulers and drivers to put safety first when traveling on roadways in order to avoid spilling manure, prevent injuries, and protect the health of people and the environment.

All agriculture and livestock operations must report spills or runoff affecting water to the DNR's 24-hour emergency spills hotline at (800) 943-0003. More information about planning and prevention is available at http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/agbusiness/manurespills.html.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.