Farmers: Check Runoff Risk

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection reminds farmers and manure applicators to check the runoff-risk advisory forecast tool before spreading manure on fields. It includes maps showing short-term runoff risk based on soil saturation, temperature and precipitation on a scale of four-kilometer grids, and the National Weather Service updates it four times daily. 

Use the forecast tool and learn more about nutrient-management planning at datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/NutrientManagement.aspx. 

Manure haulers and drivers should also put safety first when traveling on roadways in order to prevent injuries and protect the health of people and the environment by avoiding spilling manure. All agriculture and livestock operations must report spills or runoff that affect water to the DNR’s 24-hour emergency spills hotline at 800.943.0003.