If manure is stacked but uncovered, within how many days must it be land applied?

The requirement for land applying uncovered manure within a specified timeframe is important for minimizing nutrient runoff and protecting water quality. When manure is stacked but left uncovered, it can be exposed to rain and other environmental factors that may lead to the leaching of nutrients, particularly nitrogen, which can contaminate nearby water sources.

In Pennsylvania, the regulations stipulate that uncovered manure must be land-applied within 120 days to prevent significant nutrient loss and potential environmental harm. This timeframe allows for the management of manure in a way that mitigates leaching and runoff risks while ensuring that the nutrients can be effectively utilized in agricultural production when applied to fields. Careful attention to these regulations is crucial for sustainable nutrient management practices.