DNRP > SWD > Composting & Soils > Manure Management > On-Site Options

On-Site Options for Managing Manure and Bedding

There are many factors to consider when evaluating options for managing livestock manure and soiled bedding on site. These include the volume of manure and bedding to be managed, location, available space, regulations, budget and time.

Contamination from excess nutrient leaching and runoff can be detrimental to water quality and fish habitat. King County's Livestock Management Ordinance calls for farms with livestock to either complete a farm plan or implement best management practices (BMPs) to protect the environment form the impacts of livestock.

Information on manure management in provided in the brochure Strategies for Livestock Manure Management (PDF, 500 K). The publication How to Compost and Use Horse Manure (PDF, 169 K) specifically addresses horse manure composting and uses, though many of the processes can be used for composting other livestock manure and bedding. In addition, a number of local resources can provide both information and assistance.

• King County Water and Land Resources Livestock Program offers technical and financial assistance with manure management, conducts site visits and can answer regulatory questions. For information, contact Laurie Clinton or Rick Reinslasoder.
• King Conservation District (external) provides technical assistance, conducts site visits, can assist with farm management plans, and offers classes on BMPs. For information, contact Josh Monaghan.
• Washington State University King County Extension Agriculture Programs offer technical assistance and training on livestock manure management. For information, contact Brad Gaolach.
• Horses for Clean Water (external) offers classes on environmentally sound horse-keeping practices. For information, contact Alayne Blickle.

top of page