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HomeMy WebLinkAbout820253_Permit Renewal Application 2019_201904100 State of North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Water Resources Animal Waste Management Systems Request for Certification of Coverage Facility Currently covered by an Expiring Sate Non -Discharge General Permit On September 30, 2019, the North Carolina State Non -Discharge General Permits for Animal Waste Management Systems will expire. As required by these permits, facilities that have been issued Certificates of Coverage to operate under these State Non -Discharge General Permits must apply for renewal at least 180 days prior to their expiration date. Therefore, all applications must be received by the Division of Water Resources by no later than April 3, 201-9. Please do not leave any question unanswered. Please verify all information and make any necessary corrections below. Application must be signed and dated by the Permittee. 1. Farm Number: 82-0253 Certificate Of Coverage Number: AWS820253 2. Facility Name: Melvin Farms 3. Landowner's Name (same as on the Waste Management Plan): John Canty Melvin 4. Landowner's Mailing Address: 905 Wildcat Rd City: Harrells State: NC Zip: 28444 Telephone Number: 910-385-5443_Ext. E-mail: 5. Facility's Physical Address: 10658 Harrells ll ■ City: Harrells State: NC Zip: 28444 6. County where Facility is located: Sampson 7. Farm Manager's Name (if different from Landowner): 8. Farm Manager's telephone number (include area code): 9. Integrator's Name (if there is not an Integrator, write "None"): M h -Brown LLC 10. Operator Name (OIC): John CaM Melvin Phone No.: 910-385-5443 OIC #: 1001504 11. Lessee's Name (if there is not a Lessee, write "None"): 12. Indicate animal operation type and number: Current Permit: Operations Type Allowable Count Swine - Wean to Feeder 2,600 Operation Types: Swine Cattle Wean to Finish Dairy Calf Dry Poultry Other Types Wean to Feeder Dairy Heifer Non Laying Chickens Laying Chickens Horses - Horses Farrow to Finish Milk Cow Pullets Horses - Other Sheep - Sheep Feeder to Finish Dry Cow Turkeys Sheep - Other Farrow to Wean Beef Stocker Calf Turkey Pullet Farrow to Feeder Beef Feeder Boar/Stud Beef Broad Cow Wet Poultry Gilts Other Non Laying Pullet Other Layers APR 9 3 2019 Reg;c;,a ©Qualt, Secuon 13. Waste Treatment and Storage Lagoons (Verify the following information is accurate and complete. Make all necessary corrections and provide missing data.) Structure Name Estimated Date Built Liner Type (Clay, Synthetic, Unknown) Capacity (Cubic Feet) Estimated Surface Area (Square Feet) Dcsign Freeboard 'Redline" (Inches) 1 �953 C S0 19.00 Mail one (1) copy of the Certified Animal Waste Management Plan (CAWMP) with this completed and signed application as required by NC General Statutes 143-215.1OC(d) to the address below. The CAWMP must include the following components: 1. The most recent Waste Utilization Plan (WUP), signed b-_ the owner and a certified technical specialist, containing: a. The method by which waste is applied to the disposal fields (e.g. irrigation, injection, etc_) b. A map of every field used for land application (for example: irrigation map) c. The soil series present on every land application field d. The crops grown on every land application field e. The Realistic Yield Expectation (RYE) for every crop shown in the WUP f. The maximum PAN to be applied to every land application field g. The waste application windows for every crop utilized in the WUP h. The required NRCS Standard specifications 2. A site map/schematic 3. Emergency Action Plan 4. Insect Control Checklist with chosen best management practices noted 5. Odor Control Checklist with chosen best management practices noted 6. Mortality Control Checklist with selected method noted - Use the enclosed updated Mortality Control Checklist 7. Lagoon/storage pond capacity documentation (design, calculations, etc.) Please be sure the above table is accurate and complete. Also provide any site evaluations, wetland determinations, or hazard classifications that may be applicable to your facility. 8. Operation and Maintenance Plan If your CAWMP includes any components not shown on this list, please include the additional components with your submittal. (e.g. composting, digesters, waste transfers, etc.) As a second option to mailing paper copies of the application package, you can scan and email one signed copy of the application and all the CAWMP items above to: 2019PermitRenewal@ncdenr.gov I attest that this application has been reviewed by me and is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that, if all required parts of this application are not completed and that if all required supporting informatioA and attachments are not included, this application package will be returned to me as incomplete. Note: In accordance with NC General Statutes 143-215.6A and 143-215.613, any person who knowingly makes any false statement, representation, or certification in any application may be subject to civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation. (18 U.S.C. Section 1001 provides a punishment by a fine of not more than $10,000 or imprisonment of not more than 5 years, or both for a similar offense.) Printed Name of Signing Official (Landowner, or if multiple Landowners all landowners should sign. If Landowner is a corporation, signature should be by a principal executive officer of the corporation): Name: Title: V�� Signature: Dater t27 ~L t Name: Signature: Name: Signature: Title: Date: Title: Date: THE COMPLETED APPLICATION SHOULD BE SENT TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS: NCDEQ-DWR Animal Feeding Operations Program 1636 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1636 Telephone number: (919) 707-9100 E-mail: 2019PermitRenewal@ncdenr.gov FORM: RENEWAL -STATE GENERAL 02/2019 13. Waste Treatment and Storage Lagoons (Verify the following information is accurate and complete. Make all necessary corrections and provide missing data.) Structure Name Estimated Date Built Liner Type (Clay, Synthetic, Unknown) Capacity (Cubic Feet) Estimated Surface Area (Square Feet) Design Freeboard 'Redline" (Inches) 1 19.00 Mail one (1) copy of the Certified Animal Waste Management Plan (CAWMP) with this completed and signed application as required by NC General Statutes 143-215.1OC(d) to the address below. The CAWMP must include the following components: 1. The most recent Waste Utilization Plan (WUP), signed by the owner and a certified technical specialist, containing: a. The method by which waste is applied to the disposal fields (e.g. irrigation, injection, etc.) b. A map of every field used for land application (for example: irrigation map) c. The soil series present on every land application field d. The crops grown on every land application field e. The Realistic Yield Expectation (RYE) for every crop shown in the WUP f. The maximum PAN to be applied to every land application field g. The waste application windows for every crop utilized in the WUP h. The required NRCS Standard specifications 2. A site map/schematic 3. Emergency Action Plan 4. Insect Control Checklist with chosen best management practices noted 5. Odor Control Checklist with chosen best management practices noted 6. Mortality Control Checklist with selected method noted - Use the enclosed updated Mortality Control Checklist 7. Lagoon/storage pond capacity documentation (design, calculations, etc.) Please be sure the above table is accurate and complete. Also provide any site evaluations, wetland determinations, or hazard classifications that may be applicable to your facility. 8. Operation and Maintenance Plan If your CAWMP includes any components not shown on this list, please include the additional components with your submittal. (e.g. composting, digesters, waste transfers, etc.) As a second option to mailing paper copies of the application package, you can scan and email one signed copy of the application and all the CAWMP items above to: 2019PermitRenewal@ncdenr.gov WASTE UTILIZATION PLAN Wednesday, April 01, 2016 Producer : Melvin Farms Farm Name: Melvin Farms 82-253 905 Wildcat Rd Harrells,NC 28444 Telephone # : (910) 385-5443 Type of Operation : Wean to Feeder Swine Number of Animals: 2600 pigs design capacity Application Method: Irrigation The waste from your animal facility must be land applied at a specified rate to prevent pollution of surface and/or groundwater. The plant nutrients in the animal waste should be used to reduce the amount of commercial fertilizer required for the crops in the fields where waste is to be applied. This waste utilization plan uses nitrogen as the limiting nutrient. Waste should be analyzed before each application cycle. Annual soil tests are strongly encouraged so that all plant nutrients can be balanced for realistic yields of the crop to be grown. Several factors are important in implementing your waste utilization plan in order to maximize the fertilizer value of the waste and to ensure that it is applied in an environmentally safe manner. Always apply waste based on the needs of the crop to be grown and the nutrient contents of the waste. Do not apply more nitrogen than the crop can utilize. Soil types are important as they have different infiltration rates, leaching potentials, cation exchange capacities, and avaialable water holding capacities. Normally waste shall not be applied to land eroding at greater than 5 tons per acre per year. With special pre -cautions, waste may be applied to land eroding at up to '10 tons per acre per year. Do not apply waste on saturated soils, when it is raining, or when the surface is frozen. Either of these conditions may result in runoff to surface waters which is not allowed under DEM regulations. Wind conditions should also be considered to avoid drift and downwind odor problems. To maximize the value of the nutrients for crop production and to reduce the potential for pollution, the waste should be applied to a growing crop or applied to bare ground not more than 30 days prior to planting. Injecting the waste or disking will conserve nutrients and reduce odor problems. This plan is based on waste application through irrigation for this is the manner in which you have chosen to apply your waste. If you choose to inject the waste in the future, you need to revise this plan. Nutrient levels for injecting waste and irrigating waste are not the same. The estimated acres needed to apply the animal waste is based on typical nutrient content for this type of facility. Acreage requirements should be based on the waste analysis report from your waste management facility. Attached you will find information on proper sampling techniques, preparation, and transfer of waste samples to the lab for ananlysis. This waste utilization plan, if carried out, meets the requirements for compliance with 15A NCAC 2H.0217 adopted by the Environmental Management Commission, RECF 7.qc: ;;��nI:1WR APR o 3 2019 WOMrQuely Regional Operations89dIon page 1 of 9 AMOUNT OF WASTE PRODUCED PER YEAR (gallons, ft3, tons, etc.) 2600 pigs X .4 tons wastelpigs/year = 1040 tons AMOUNT OF PLANT AVAILABLE NITROGEN (PAN) PRODUCED PER YEAR 2600 pigs X .34 Ibs PAN/pigs/year = 884 PAN/year Applying the above amount of waste is a big job. You should plan time and have appropriate equipment to apply the waste in a timely manner. The following acreage will be needed for waste application based on the crop to be grown, soil type and suface application. TABLE 1 : ACRES OWNED BY PRODUCER TRACT FIELD SOIL TYPE &CLASS- CROP DETERMINING PHASE CODE 10747 1 AUTRYVILLE ALL BC 10747 1 ;AUTRYVILLE ALL SG 10747 2 AUTRYVILLE ALL BC 16747 - 2 _AUTRYVILLE ALL SG YIELD LBS AW COMM ACRES LBS AW APPLIC. N/ACRE N/ACRE USED TIME 4.7 230.3 0 0.81 184.24 MAR-SEP 1 50 0 0.8 40 SEP-MAY 4.7 230.3 0 5.2 1197.56 MAR-SEP 1 50 0 5.2 260 SEP-MAY TOTALS: 1681.8 Indicates that this field is being overseeded (i.e. interplanted) or winter annuals follow summer annuals. * Indicates a Crop Rotation NOTE: The applicator is cautioned that P and K may be over applied while meeting the N requirments. Beginning in 1996 the Coastal Zone Management Act will require farmers in some eastern counties of NC to have a nutrient management plan that addresses all nutrients. This plan only addresses Nitrogen. Page 2 of 9 TABLE 2: ACRES WITH AGREEMENT OR LONG TERM LEASE (Agreement with adjacent landowners must be attached.) (Required only if operator does not own adequate land. See required specifications 2.) There are no Acres Leased Indicates that this field is being overseeded (i.e. interplanted) or winter annuals follow summer annuals. * Indicates a Crop Rotation * Acreage figures may exceed total acreage in field due to overseeding. **Lbs AW N (animal waste nitrogen) equals total required nitrogen less any commercial nitrogen (COMM N) supplied. The following legend explains the crop codes used in TABLES 1 and 2 above: CROP CODE CROP BC HYBRID BERMUDAGRASS-CONTROLLED GRAZED SG SMALL GRAIN OVERSEEDED UNITS LBS N/UNIT TONS 50 AC 50 Page 3 of 9 TOTALS FROM TABLES 1 AND 2 ACRES LBS AW N USED TABLE 1 I 6 1,682 TOTALS: 6 1,682 AMOUNT OF N PRODUCED: 884 'BALANCE -798 *** This number must be less than or equal to 0 in order to fully utilize the animal waste N produced. Acres show in each of the preceeding tables are considered to be the usable acres excluding required buffers, filter strips along ditches, odd areas unable to be irrigated, and perimeter areas not receiving full application rates due to equipment limitations. Actual total acres in the fields listed may, and most likely will be, more than the acres shown in the tables. NOTE: The Waste Utilization Plan must contain provisions for periodic land application of sludge at agronomic rates. The sludge will be nurturient rich and will require precautionary measures to prevent over application of nutrients or other elements. Your production facility will produce approximately 197.6 pounds of plant available nitrogen (PAN) per year in the sludge that will need to be removed on a periodic basis. This figure is PAN when broadcasting the sludge. Please be aware that additional acres of land, as well special equipment, may be needed when you remove this sludge. See the attached map showing the fields to be used for the utilization of waste water. APPLICATION OF WASTE BY IRRIGATION The irrigation application rate should not exceed the intake rate of the soil at the time of irrigation such that runoff or ponding occurs. This rate is limited by initial soil moisture content, soil structure, soil texture, water droplet size, and organic solids. The application amount should not exceed the available water holding capacity of the soil at the time of irrigation nor should the plant available nitrogen applied exceed the nitrogen needs of the crop. Your facility is designed for 180 days of temporary storage and the temporary storage must be removed on the average of once every 5.92 months. In no instance should the volume of waste being stored in your structure be within 1.58 feet of the top of the dike. If surface irrigation is the method of land application for this plan, it is the responsiblity of the producer and irrigation designer to ensure that an irrigation system is installed to properly irrigate the acres shown in Tables 1 and 2. Failure to apply the recommended rates and amounts of Nitrogen shown in the tables may make this plan invalid. The following table is provided as a guide for establishing application rates and amounts. APPLICATION APPLICATION TRACT FIELD SOIL TYPE CROP RATE (inlhr) AMT (inches) 10747 -1, -2 AUTRYVILLE ALL SG 0.60 "1 '10747 1,2 IAUTRYVILLE ALL BC 1 0.60 "1 * This is the maximum application amount allowed for the soil assuming the amount of nitrogen allowed for the crop is not over applied. In many situations, the application amount shown cannot be applied because the nitrogen limitation. The maximum application amount shown can be applied under optimum soil conditions. RECEIVFZmcy;Z=WR APR 0 3 2019 We'prQua ft Regionai0PerationsSG"' Page 4 of 9 NARRATIVE OF OPERATION Current RYE'S and the new Nitrogen co -efficient are used in this plan. Page 5 of 9 PLANS & SPECIFICATIONS 1. Animal waste shall not reach surface waters of the state by runoff, drift, manmade conveyances, direct application, or direct discharge during operation or land application. Any discharge of waste which reaches surface water is prohibited. Illegal discharges are subject to assessment of civil penalties of $10,000 per day by the Division of Water Quality for every day the discharge continues. 2. The Field Office must have documentation in the design folder that the producer either owns or has long term access to adequate land to properly dispose of waste. If the producer does not own adequate land to properly dispose of waste, he shall provide NRCS with a copy of a written agreement with a landowner who is within a reasonable proximity, allowing him/her the use of the land for waste application for the life expectancy of the production facility. It is the responsibility of the owner of the facility to secure an update of the Waste Utilization Plan when there is a change in the operation, increase in the number of animals, method of utilization, or available land. 3. Animal waste shall be applied to meet, but not exceed, the Nitrogen needs for realistic crop yields based on soil type, available moisture, historical data, climate conditions, and level of management, unless there are regulations that restrict the rate of application for other nutrients. 4. Animal waste may be applied to land that has a Resource Management System (RMS) or an Alternative Conservation System (ACS). If an ACS is used the soil loss shall be no greater than 10 tons per acre per year and appropriate filter strips will be used where runoff leaves the field. These filter strips will be in addition to 'Buffers" required by DEM. (See FOTG Stantard 393 - Filter Strips and Standard 390 Interim Riparian Forest Buffers). 5. Odors can be reduced by injecting the waste or disking after waste application. Waste should not be applied when there is danger of drift from the irrigation field. 6. When animal waste is to be applied on acres subject to flooding, it will be soil incorporated on conventionally tilled cropland. When applied to conservation tilled crops or grassland, the waste may be broadcast provided the application does not occur during a season prone to flooding. (See "Weather and Climate in North Carolina" in the NRCS Technical Reference - Environment file for guidance.) *7. Liquid waste shall be applied at rates not to exceed the soil infiltration rate such that runoff does not occur offsite or to surface waters and in a method which does not cause drift from the site during application. No ponding should occur in order to control conditions conducive to odor or flies and to provide uniformity of application. 8. Animal waste shall not be applied to saturated soils, during rainfall events, or when the surface is frozen. 9. Animal waste shall be applied on actively growing crops in such a manner that the crop is not covered with waste to a depth that would inhibit growth. 10. Waste nutrients shall not be applied in fall or winter for spring planted crops on soils with a high potential for leaching. Waste nutrient loading rates on these soils should be held to a minimum and a suitable winter cover crop planted to take up released nutrients. Waste shall not be applied more than 30 days prior to planting of a crop on bare soil. 11. Any new swine facility sited on or after October 1, 1995 shall comply with the following: the outer perimeter of the land area onto which waste is applied from a lagoon that is a component of a swine farm shall be at least 50 feet from any residential property boundary and from anv perennial stream or river (other that an irriaation ditch or canal. Animal waste Page 6 of 9 other than swine waste from facilities sited on or after October 1, 1995), shall not be applied closer than 25 feet to perennial waters. (See Standard 393 - Filter Strips) 12. Animal waste shall not be applied closer than 100 feet to wells. 13. Animal Waste shall not be applied closer than 200 feet of dwellings other than those owned by the landownwer. 14. Waste shall be applied in a manner not to reach other property and public right - of ways. 15. Animal waste shall not be discharged into surface waters, drainageways, or wetlands by discharge or by over -spraying. Animal waste may be applied to prior converted croplands provided they have been approved as a land application site by a "technical specialist". Animal waste should not be applied on grassed waterways that discharge directly into water courses, except when applied at agronomic rates and the application causes no runoff or drift from the site. *16. Domestic and industrial waste from washdown facilities, showers, toilets, sinks, etc., shall not be discharged into the animal waste management system. *17. A protective cover of appropriate vegetation will be established on all disturbed areas (lagoon embankments, berms, pipe runs, etc.). If needed, special vegetation shall be provided for these areas and shall be fenced, as necessary, to protect the vegetation. Vegetation such as trees, shrubs, and other woody species, etc. are limited to areas where considered appropriate. Lagoon areas should be kept mowed and accessible. Lagoon berms and structures should be inspected regularly for evidence of erosion, leakage or discharge. *18. If animal production at the facility is to be suspended or terminated, the owner is responsible for obtaining and implementing a "closure plan" which will eliminate the possibility of an illegal discharge, pollution and erosion. *19. Waste handling structures, piping, pumps, reels, etc., should be inspected on a regular basis to prevent breakdowns, leaks, and spills. A regular maintenance checklist should be kept on site. 20. Animal waste can be used in a rotation that includes vegetables and other crops for direct human consumption. However, if animal waste is used on crops for direct human consumption, it should only be applied as a preemergence with no other applications of animal waste during the crop season. *21. Highly visible markers shall be installed to mark the top and bottom elevations of the temporary storage (pumping volume) of all waste treatment lagoons. Pumping shall be managed to maintain the liquid level between the markers. A marker will be required to mark the maximum storage volume fpr waste storage ponds. 22. Waste shall be tested within 60 days of utilization and soil shall be tested at least annually at crop sites where waste products are applied. Nitrogen shall be the rate - determining element. Zinc and copper levels in the soils shall be monitored and alternative crop sites shall be used when these metals approach excessive levels. pH shall be adjusted for optimum crop production amd maintained. Soil and waste analysis records shall be kept for five (5) years. Poultry dry waste application records shall be maintained for three (3) years. Waste application records for all other waste shall be maintained for five (5) years. 23. Dead animals will be disposed of in a manner that meets North Carolina Department of Agriculture regulations. * Liquid Systems Page 7 of 9 NAME OF FARM: Melvin Farms 82-253 OWNER / MANAGER AGREEMENT I (we) understand and will follow and implement the specifications and the operation and maintenance precedures estalished in the approved animal waste utilization plan for the farm named above. I (we) know that any expansion to the existing design capacity of the waste treatment and/or storage system or construction of new facilities will require a new utilization plan and a new certification to be submitted to DEM before the new animals are stocked. I (we) understand that I must own or have acces to equipment, primarily irrigation equipment, to land apply the animal waste described in this waste utilization plan. This equipment must be available at the appropriate pumping time such that no discharge occurs from the lagoon in a 25-year 1-day storm event. I also certify that the waste will be applied on the land according to this plan at the appropriate times and at rates that no runoff occurs. NAME OF F ITY OWNER; Melvin Farms SIGNATURE: NAME OF M AG R (if different from owner): SIGNATURE: DATE:— Lv) - l 5 DATE: NAME OF TECHNICAL SPECIALIST: Curtis Barwick AFFILIATION: Barwick Ag Services ADDRESS (AGENCY): 103 Country Club Circle Clinton, NC 28328 (910) 385-1000 , SIGNATURE:/ Icy DATE: please print �/ ;//15- Page 9 of 9 Swine Farm Waste Management Odor Control Checklist Source Cause �- BMPs to Minimize nimize Odor r_a,,mued K Vegetative or wooded buffers M'Recommended best management Animal body Di • rty manure -covered practices Good judgment and common sense _ surfaces animals R"bry floors - -~ - - li loor surfaces • Wet manure -covered floors 6' Slotted doors Ca'' Waterers located over slotted floors ITS' Feeders at high end of solid floors B'Scrape manure buildup from floors Manure collection _ _ _ • Urine 0 Underfloor ventilation for drying . pits 4 Partial microbial R Frequent manure removal by flush, pit recharge, decomposition or scrape Ventilation exhaust • Volatile nacPc 0 Underfloor ventilation fans Indoor urfaces Flush tanks • Dust Lw ran maintenance ~� • Dust ©'Efficient air movement GYWashdown between groups of animals ©Feed additives fO Feeder covers WFeed delivery downspout extenders to feeder covers ■ Agitation of recycled lagoon 0 Flush tank covers liquid while tanks are filling Extend fill lines to near bottom of tanks with anti-siplion vents .ane Practices Source End ofdrainpipes at lagoon Cause Agitation during wastewater IQMPs to Minimize Odor Extend discharge point of _ - conveyance �• pipes underneath lagoon liquid level Lagoon surfaces Volatilegas —emissions aci trYl'roper lagoon liquid capacity, • Biological mixing; M__Correct lagoon startup procedures; • Agitation IrMinimum surface area-wvolume ratio; &rMinimum agitation when.pumping; ❑ Mechanical aeration; W' Proven biological additives Irrigation sprinkler nozzles • 1ligh pressure agitation; OF"Irrigate on dry days with little or no wind; . Wind drill W-Minimum recommended operating pressure; liYPump intake near lagoon liquid surface; _ _ _ ❑ Pump from second -stage lagoon Storage lank or basin Partial microbial d 1 Site Specific Practices surface ecomposueon, a Mixing while filling; W-Hotlom ormidlevel loading; - — - -- - ❑ Tank covers; • Agitation when emptying Cl Basin surface mats of solids; _ C"Proven biological additives or oxidants Setlling basin surface • Partial microbial decomposition; [Extend drainpipe outlets underneath liquid • Mixing while filling; level; • Agitation when emptying 0" Remove settled solids Manure, slurry or sludge • Agitation when spreading; regularly t9^ Soil injection ofslurrylsludges; spreader outlets . Volatile gas emissions Er Wash residual manure from spreader after use; a'"l'roven biological additives or oxidants Uncovered manure, slurry or sludge on field . Volatile gas emissions while drying p- Soil injection of slurry/sludges surfaces (O'Soil incorporation within 48 Ins.; rl Spread in thin unifonn layers for rapid drying; 19"-Proven biological additives or oxidants Dead animals • Carcass decomposition ('Proper disposition of carcasses Dead animal disposal • Carcass decomposition OrComplele covering of carcasses in burial pits pits; CI Proper location/construction ol'disposal pits Incinerators • Incomplete combustion ❑ Secondary stack burners A" 'C- November 11, 1996, Page Source Cause BMPs to Minimtiize Odor Site Specific Practices Standing water around • Improper drainage; Grade and landscape such that water drains facilities . Microbial decomposition of away from facilities organic matter Manure tracked onto • Poorly maintained access roads Fann access road maintenance public roads from faun access Additional Information: Swine Manure Management ; 0200 Rule/BMP Packet - Swine Production Farm Potential Odor Sources and Remedies; EBAE Fact Sheet Swine Production Facility Manure Management: Pit Recharge - Lagoon Treatment ; EBAE 128-88 Swine Production Facility Manure Management: Underfloor Flush - Lagoon Treatment ; EBAE 129-88 Lagoon Design and Management for Livestock Manure Treatment and Storage; EBAE 103-83 Calibration of Manure and Wastewater Application Equipment ; EBAE Fact Sheet Controlling Odors from Swine Buildings; PIH-33 Environmental Assurance Program ; NPPC Manual Options for Managing Odor; a report from the Swine Odor Task Force Nuisance Concerns in Animal Manure Management: Odors and Flies; PRO107. 1995 Conference Proceedings _ Available From, ' NCSU, County Extension Center NCSU-BAE NCSU-BAE NCSU-BAE NCSU-BAE NCSU - BAE NCSU - Swine Extension NC Pork Producers Assoc NCSU Agri Communications 1-lorida Cooperative Extension AMOC - November 11, 1996, Page 5 Insect Control Checklist for Animal Operations Source -'— Urvil's to cattle i Insects - - _ - Site Specific Practices Liquid Systems �— --`— -- 1:111511 (i1111C S ---- Accunlufat;un (>f solids _ -- Fr Flush system is designed and operated — sufficiently to remove accunlulalec, solids front as designed. r1l"'intiers Remove bridging of accumulated solids at - I '%WH15 .1(lil 1'lls _--- Clusled Soli(S discharge — — - --- _ Maintain lagoons, seining bas—ins and pits where - — -- -- --' — -- pest breeding is apparent to minimize the crusting of solids to a depth of no more than 6 - - - - —�- -- I:),ll'SSII'l' :fit:•�ta11Ve _ niches over more than 30% of sit, ace. • , � 1)e,ca}'((16 vegelatiu/l MaiuWin vegetative • ——•"_`----- 6etallve control along hanks of - lagoons and other impoundolents to prevent accunulation of decaying vegetative m,auer _ _-- _ _-- - _• __-- - _ _ _-- along; waters edge on ;nlpoull(Iment's perimeter. — Feed Spillage Sl)Ilfilge -- - Dry Systems -- ---- -- - -- --- — ^-- --e Design, operate and maintain feet] Systems hunkers and (roughs) to minimize the accumulation of decaying wastage. fv/('(c an UP spillage on a routine basis (e.g., 7 - 10 day interval during summer; 15-30 day inle,vaf FIG(( Slid.; re - --- ---'-- L Acculnulati(►ns of feed res;ducs Turing winter). - --' Reduce lllolslure acculnulatit)n will;;,, a(1(I "round iulmethille Perinleler of Iced Slol age areas by;nsnriug drainage away lions site and/or providing adequate colllainlnelil (c.g., covered bin for brewer's grain and similar high Moisture gldin pro(Iucts). Ci Inspecl lilr and remove or beak up accunullaled solids in fillet' strips around fee(1 slotill, its needed. AR•. � Nut�cnlhcr ! I, I'1')(i, I'al;c i _ �uurcc Animal Iloldinl; Arcs I)t y ?� tanu�inb SySteuts Cause' • Accunyuiations ofaninyal wastes and feed wastage 13MPs to Control Insects t] Eliminate low areas that trap moisture along Site Slyccific Practices fences and other locations where waste _1,��� accumulates and disturbance by animals is minimal. n Maintain fence rows and filter strips around animal holding areas to minittyize accumulations of wastes (i.e., inspect for and remove or break up accumulated solids as nooda.►\ f7 Remove spillage on a routine basis (e.g., day interval during summer; 15-30 day interval during winter) where manure is loaded for land application or disposal. n Provide lbr adetlttate drainage around manure stockpiles. C7 Inspect for and remove or break up accumulatetl wastes in filler strips around stockpiles and amtre 001ha_ndlinb areas as needed. it igh, intunnatirnt cuntac! the Cooperative Extension Service, Aeparu►tent nf! ntan►o!o , ti.ticil.L,itl',?Ib'Ji-7h1). ----- - �--- ' b), l3ut; 7613, Nutlh ('arulin:t State; Univrtsily, AMIC - ldoverul,er 11. I►)9G, Page 2 Acc►rnu►lalions of animal wa es EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN PHONE NUMBERS DWQ A:? EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM �f SWCD 910 59.2 — 7963 NRCS 91,10 &VA - M43 This plan will be implemented in the event that wastes from your operation are leaking, overflowing, or running off site. You should not wait until wastes reach surface waters or leave your property to consider that you have a problem. You should make every effort to ensure that this does not happen. This plan should be posted in an accessible location for all employees at the facility. The following are some action items you should take. L Stop the release of wastes. Depending on the situation, this may or may not be possible. Suggested responses to some possible problems are listed below. A. Lagoon overflow -possible solutions are: a. Add soil to berm to increase elevation of dam. b. Pump wastes to fields at an acceptable rate. c. Stop all flows to the lagoon immediately. d. Call a pumping contractor. e. Make sure no surface water is entering lagoon. B: Runoff from waste application field -actions include: a. Immediately stop waste application. b. Create a temporary diversion to contain waste. c. Incorporate waste to reduce runoff. d. EvaIuate and eliminate the reason(s) that caused the runoff. e. Evaluate the application rates for the fields where runoff occurred. C: Leakage from the waste pipes and sprinklers -action include: a. Stop recycle pump.. b. Stop irrigation pump. c. Close valves to eliminate further discharge. d. Repair all Ieaks prior to restarting pumps. D: Leakage from fll~sh systems, houses, solid separators -action include: a. Stop recycle pump. b. Stop irrigation pump. c. Make sure no siphon occurs. d. Stop all flog s in the house. flush systems, or solid separators. December 18, 1996 e. Repair all leaks prior to restarting pumps. E: Leakage from base or sidewall of lagoon. Often this is seepage as opposed to flowing leaks- possible action: a. Dig a shall sump or ditch away from the embankment to catch all seepage, put in a submersible pump, and pump back to lagoon. b. If holes are caused by burrowing animals, trap or remove animals and fill holes and compact with a clay type soil. C. Have a professional evaluate the condition of the side walls and lagoon bottom as soon as possible. 2. Assess the extent of the spill and note any obvious damages. a. Did the waste reach any surface waters? b. Approximately how much was released and for what duration? C. Any damage noted, such as employee injury, fish kills, or property damage? d. Did the spill leave the property? e. Does the spill have the potential to reach surface waters? f. Could a fature rain event cause the spill to reach surface waters? g. Are potable water wells in danger.(either on or off of the property)? h. How much reached surface waters? 3: Contact appropriate agencies. a. Durin- normal business hours, call our DW g � 9�o as6-�i Y Q (Division of Water Quality) regional office; Phone - After hours, emergency number: 919-733-3942. Your phone call should include: your name, facility, telephone number, the details of the incident from item 2 above, the exact location of the facility, the Iocation or direction of movement of the spill, weather and wind conditions. The corrective measures that have been under taken, and the seriousness of the situation. b. If spill leaves property or enters surface waters, call local EMS Phone number - c. Instruct EMS to contact local Health Department. d. Contact CES, phone number $ ?'6 ; local SWCD office phone number Wiz_`"9es and Iocal MRCS office for adviceltechnical assistance phone number - sue% 7°6j 4: If none of the above works call 911 or the Sheriffs Department and explain your problem to them and ask that person to contact the proper agencies for you. 5: .Contact the contractor of lour choice to begin repair of problem to minimize off -site damage. a. Contractors Name:___ lc �•� �J's �F�__ b. Contractors Address: C. Contractors Phone: 9 d ._ . 2 December 18, 1996 6: Contact the technical specialist Nvho certified the lagoon (;-RCS, Consulting En."inee.r. etc.) a. Name: D� � 1C•�s b. Phone: z — o y 7: Implement procedures as advised by DWQ and technical assistance agencies to rec:tifY the damage. repair the systern. and reassess the waste management plan to keep problems with release of vvastes from happening again. CQ:.:r,ne: , Version —November 26, 2018 Mortality Management Methods Indicate which method(s) will be implemented. When selecting multiple methods indicate a primary versus secondary option. Methods other than those listed must be approved by the State Veterinarian. Primary Secondary Routine Mortality ® Burial three feet beneath the surface of the ground within 24 hours of knowledge of animal death. The burial must be at least 300 feet from any flowing stream or public body of water (G.S.106-403). The bottom of the burial pit should beat least one foot above the seasonal high water table. Attach burial location map and plan. Landfill at municipal solid waste facility permitted by NC DEQ under GS 15A NCAC 13B .0200. Rendering at a rendering plant licensed under G.S. 106-168.7. Complete incineration according to 02 NCAC 52C .0102. a A composting system approved and permitted by the NC Department of Agriculture & Con- sumer Services Veterinary Division (attach copy of permit). If compost is distributed off -farm, additional requirements must be met and a permit is required from'NC DEQ. ❑ In the case of dead poultry only, placing in a disposal pit of a size and design approved by the NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (G.S. 106-549.70). - a Any method which, in the professional opinion of the State Veterinarian, would make possible the salvage of part of a dead animal's value without endangering human or animal health. (Written approval by the State Veterinarian must be attached). F1 Mass Mortality Plan Mass mortality plans are required for farms covered by an: NPDES permit. These plans are also recommended for all animal operations. This plan outlines farm -specific mortality man- agement methods to be used for mass mortality. The NCDA&CS, Veterinary Division sup- ports a variety of emergency mortality disposal options; contact the Division for guidance. • A catastrophic mortality disposal plan is part of the facility's CAWMP and is activated when numbers of dead animals exceed normal mortality rates as specified by the State Veterinarian. • Burial must be done in accordance with NC General Statutes and NCDA&CS Veterinary Division regulations and guidance. • Mass burial sites are subject to additional permit conditions (refer to facility's animal waste management system permit). • In the event of imminent threat of a disease emergency, the State Veterinarian may enact additional temporary procedures or measures for disposal according to G.S. 106-399.4. D�� MD Lw Signature of Farm Owner/Manager Date Signature of Technical Specialist Date Date: 02/05/93 "Etance 16 '.earewt '.'p ��t`er res. ' �e' . - 1 'wner): 3[x}0 feet l. STEADY P-A-L LIVE AEjAh! 0 Sows (farrow to f`n:s�) X 1417 |bs 0 SoWs = 0 (farrow to feeoer) X 0 Heac (01nisk'oa 52�' /�s^ = 0 only) X 13�5 |bs^ = 0 0 Sows 'farrow tv wean) X 43jos^ = 2100 Head (wean to fepuer) X � ^ 0 3'bs v . = 78000 TOTAL STEADY S—A—E —lYE WEIGHT (SSLW) 2~ VINOW REQUIRED VREATMENT VOLUME OF LA800;v Voiuze = FS000 |bs. SSLw X Treatment Volume CF//b Treatment Vo:une CF//s. SSLW= ^ SSLW Vo/une = 1 0 C�/'u ^ ^ 8SL� ' 78000 cub;c feet 3. STORAW VCLbTE FOE S"UD6E ACCWMJLAT10,N.1 Volume = 0 cubic feet 4~ TOTAL DES16N VOLUM-H Insiae top: length 150 feet : wioth T»o of dike at elevation 53.00 et 145 feet Freeboarc 1.3 Peet. S de slopes - Total design 'agoon liou:d level t e�e 3^0:1(ins/de} a Bottom elevation 51.70 feet of iayco: at ejsvat ,n 41.00 feei, Seasonal 09h water tab.e eievatio.' 46.00 feet Totaj design volume usilg prismoiba/ formu;a: SS/END! SS/END2 BE/SIDE! SS/TN02 LENGTH WIDTH 3.0 3.0 S.0 S.0 DEPTH 142.2 137.2 10.70 �RE4 �F T3P LEN8T� X PCIDTH 142 137 19510 (Area of Too) AREA CF BOTTOM ' 78 73 ' 5694 (Area of Bottom) AREA OF MIDSECTIO!,,j LENGTFj X WIDTH X Al. 110 WE 46286 (Area of Midsaction X 4) CU. FV. = [Area top,(4}Area M/Cssct'on)+Area Bottom] X Dept*/6 19510 46286 5694 2 VOL' OF —A£OON AT TOTAL EH8l8N LIQUZD LEVEL = 127490 CU. FT. 5. AEN?3RANY nlwAuL Ura,:ace Area;. ' ~ Lagoo: /toP o; d:ke) -engtn X Width = 150 145 21750 Suuare Feet eu:ic/n9s (roof and lot water) Lengtn X N/dtn = 0 0 0 Souare Feet TOTAL DA 21750 Scuare �ce� ===> Des;Sn temoorary storaSe to oe 180 oays. A. Volume of waste produced Wroximate oa/>v proouction of manure in CF/LD SSLW 0.00136 Vo:ume = 78000 Lhs. SSLW X CT of waste/ |b/day X 180 Volume = 19094 Cubic feet ^ D . Voiu� ' e o f waso water This is the amo`unt of fresh water used for wasin in3 f|oors or volume of fresh water used for a f!ush system. Flush that systems recirculate the /agoon water are accounteo for in 5A. ' Voiume = 0 Gallons/day X 180 days storage/7.0-; Sal ions per CF Volume = 0 Cubic feet C. Vo!ume of raiofail in excess of evaooration Use period of t/Te whe: rainfa!j exceeds evaporation by /arSest amount. 180 days excess rainfall = 7.0 inches Volume = 7.0 inched X DA / 12 inches oer foot: ' Vo/ume = 12687.5 Cubic feet D. Vo/ume of 25 year - 24 nou' storm n=" Vu|ume = 7.0 Inches / 12 inches per foot X D/\ Volume = 12688 Cubic feet TOTAL REQUIRED TEMPORARY STORAGE.' 5A. 0094 Cukc feet 5B. 0 Cuhic feet 5C. 12688 Cub:c feet 5D. 12688 Cubic feet TOTAL 44469 CuNc feet 6. SUMMARY ToW recuired Cub!c fee-.., Total ces Sr voune ava� /.= Cubc �eet Min. reqrc. trtont, vo!, p/us s����e accun.= 78000 Cu. Ft. At elev. 4S.90 Fy; Vo|= 79171 CuMic feet (end pumping) Total design voiume ;sss 25yr-24ty storm = 114803 Cu. Ft. At elev. . 51.00 FZ; Vol= 0424C Cub:c feet (start ounning) Seasonal high water tab/e elevation /s 46'00 Feet, w0ch mus-z; be lower ohan the e!evati"n of top of treatment 00/ume 48.90 DESIGNED BY; ___/~^__�-�=,________-____ ~ DATE: _________ APPROVED BY: DATE: GA.- NOTE: SEE AT"ACHEj WASTE WILIZA�ION "!A% ADDITIONAL NOTES.- ....................................................... ______________________________________________________ ` . _-_-______________ __________ _________________________________________________________ ff )L�_l ��3 __ OPERATION & MAINTENANCE PLAN Proper lagoon liquid management should be a year-round priority. It is especially important to manage levels so that you do not have problems during extended rainy and wet periods, Maximum storage capacity should be available in the lagoon for periods when the receiving crop is dormant (such as wintertime for bermudagrass) or when there are extended rainy spells such as the thunderstorm season in the summertime. This means that at the first signs of plant growth in the later winter/early spring, irrigation according to a farm waste management plan should be done whenever the land is dry enough to receive lagoon liquid. This will make storage space available in the lagoon for future wet periods. In the late summer/early fall the lagoon should be pumped down to the low marker (see Figure 2-1) to allow for winter storage. Every effort should be made to maintain the lagoon close to the minimum liquid level as long as the weather and waste utilization plan will allow it. Waiting until the lagoon has reached its maximum storage capacity before startiwet periods. ng to gate does not leave room for storing excess water during extended Overflow from the lagoon for any reason except a 25-year24-hour storm is violation of state law and subject to penalty action. , The routine maintenance of a lagoon involves the following: Maintenance of a vegetative cover for the dam, Fescue or common bermudagrass are the most common vegetative covers. The vegetation should be fertilized each year, if needed, to maintain a vigorous stand. The amount of fertilizer applied should be based on a soils test, but in the event that it is not practical to obtain a soils test each year, the lagoon embankment and surrounding areas should be fertilized with 800 pounds per acre of 10-10-10, or equivalent. Brush and trees on the embankment must be controlled, This may be done by mowing, spraying, grazing, chopping, or a combination of these practices, This should be done at least once a year and possibly twice in years that weather conditions are favorable for heavy vegetative growth, NOTE: If vegetation is controlled by spraying, the herbicide must not be allowed to enter the lagoon water. Such chemicals could harm the bacteria in the lagoon that are treating the waste. Maintenance inspections of the entire lagoon should be made during the initial filling of the lagoon and at least, monthly and after major rainfall and storm events, Items to be checked should include, as a minimum, the following: Waste Inlet Pipes, Recycling Pipes, and Overflow Pipes ---look for- 1 separation of joints 2. cracks or breaks 3. accumulation of salts or minerals 4, overall condition of pipes Lagoon surface ---look for: 1. undesirable vegetative growth 2. floating or lodged debris Embankment ---look for: 1. settlement, cracking, or "jug" holes 2. side slope stability ---slumps or bulges 3. wet or damp areas on the back slope 4. erosion due to lack of vegetation or as a result of wave action 5. rodent damage Larger lagoons may be subject to liner damage due to wave action caused by strong winds. These waves can erode the lagoon sidewalls, thereby weakening the lagooT dam. A good stand of vegetation will reduce the potential damage caused by wave action. if wave action causes serious damage to a lagoon sidewall, baffles in the lagoon may be used to reduce the wave impacts. Any of these features could lead to erosion and weakening of the dam. If your lagoon has any of these features, you should call an appropriate expert familiar with design and construction of waste lagoons. You may need to provide a temporary fix if there is a threat of a waste discharge. However, a permanent solution should be reviewed by the technical expert. Any digging into a lagoon dam with heavy equipment is a serious undertaking with potentially serious consequences and should not be conducted unless recommended by an appropriate technical expert. Transfer Pumps ---check for proper operation of: 1, recycling pumps 2. irrigation pumps Check for leaks, loose fittings, and overall pump operation. An unusually loud or grinding noise, or a large amount of vibration, may indicate that the pump is in need or repair or replacement. NOTE; Pumping systems should be inspected and operated frequently enough so that you are not completely "surprised" by equipment failure. You should perform your pumping system maintenance at a time when your lagoon is at its low level. This will allow some safety time should major repairs be required. Having a nearly full lagoon is not the time to think about switching, repairing , or borrowing pumps. Probably, if your lagoon is full, your neighbor's lagoon is full also. You should consider maintaining an inventory of spare parts or pumps. Surface water diversion features are designed to carry all surface drainage waters (such as rainfall runoff, roof drainage, gutter outlets, and parking lot runoff) away from your lagoon and other waste treatment or storage structures. The only water that should be coming from your lagoon is that which comes from your flushing (washing) system pipes and the rainfall that hits the lagoon directly. You should inspect your diversion system for the following: 1. adcquatc vegetation 2. diversion capacity 3. ridge berm height Identified problems should be corrected promptly. It is advisable to inspect your system during or immediately following a heavy rain. If technical assistance is needed to determine proper solutions, consult with appropriate experts. You should record the level of the lagoon just prior to when rain is predicted, and then record the level again 4 to 6 hours after the rain (assumes there is no pumping). This will give you an idea of how much your lagoon level will rise with a certain rainfall amount (you must also be recording your rainfall for this to work). Knowing this should help in planning irrigation applications and storage. If your lagoon rises excessively, you may have an inflow problem from a surface water diversion or there may be seepage into the lagoon from the surrounding land. Lagoon Operation Startup: Immediately after construction establish a complete sod cover on bare soil surfaces to avoid erosion. 2. Fill new lagoon design treatment volume at least half full of water before waste loading begins, taking care not to erode lining or bank slopes. 3. Drainpipes into the lagoon should have a flexible pipe extender on the end of the pipe to discharge near the bottom of the lagoon during initial filling or another means of slowing the incoming water to avoid erosion of the lining. 4. When possible, begin loading new lagoons in the spring to maximize bacterial establishment (due to warmer weather). 5. It is recommended that a new lagoon be seeded with sludge from a healthy working swine lagoon in the amount of 0.25 percent of the full Iagoon liquid volume. This seeding should occour at least two weeks prior to the addition of wastewater. 6. Maintain a periodic check on the lagoon liquid pH. If the pH falls below 7.0, add agricultural lime at the rate of 1 pound per 1000 cubic feet of lagoon liquid volume until the pH rises above 7.0. Optimum lagoon liquid pH is between 7.5 and 8.0. 7. A dark color, lack of bubbling, and excessive odor signals inadequate biological activity, Consultation with a technical specialist is recommended if these conditions occur for prolonged periods, especially during the warm season. Loading: The more frequently and regularly that wastewater is added to a lagoon, the better the lagoon will function. Flush systems that wash waste into the lagoon several times daily are optimum for treatment. Pit recharge systems, in which one or more buildings are drained and recharged each day, also work well. — Practice water conservation ---minimize building water usage and spillage from leaking waterers, broken pipes and washdown through proper maintenance and water conservation. Management: Minimize feed wastage and spillage by keeping feeders adjusted. This will reduce the amount of solids entering the lagoon Maintain lagoon liquid level between the permanent storage level and the full temporary storage level. Place visible markers or stakes on the lagoon bank to show the minimum liquid level and the maximum liquid lever (Figure 2-1). Start irrigating at the earliest possible date in the spring based on nutrient requirements and soil moisture so that temporary storage will be maximized for the summer thunderstorm season. Similarly, irrigate in the late summer/early fall to provide maximum lagoon storage for the winter. The lagoon liquid level should never be closer than 1 foot to the lowest point of the dam or embankment. Do not pump the lagoon liquid level lower that the permanent storage level unless you are removing sludge. Locate float pump intakes approximately 18 inches underneath the liquid surface and as far away from the drainpipe inlets as possible. Prevent additions of bedding materials, long-stemmed forage or vegetation, molded feed, plastic syringes, or other foreign materials into the lagoon. Frequently remove solids from catch basins at end of confinement houses or wherever they are installed. Maintain strict vegetation, rodent, and varmint control near lagoon edges. Do not allow trees or large bushes to grow on lagoon dam or embankment. Remove sludge from the lagoon either when the sludge storage capacity is full or before it fills 50 percent of the permanent storage volume. If animal production is to be terminated, the owner is responsible for obtaining and implementing a closure plan to eliminate the possibility of a pollutant discharge. Sludge Removal: Rate of lagoon sludge buildup can be reduced by; proper lagoon sizing, mechanical solids separation of flushed waste, gravity settling of flushed waste solids in an appropriately designed basin, or minimizing feed wastage and spillage. Lagoon sludge that is removed annually rather than stored long term will: have more nutrients, have more odor, and require more land to properly use the nutrients. Removal techniques: Hire a custom applicator. Mix the sludge and lagoon liquid with a chopper -agitator impeller pump through large -bore sprinkler irrigation system onto nearby cropland; and soil incorporate. Dewater the upper part of lagoon by irrigation onto nearby cropland or forageland; mix remaining sludge; pump into liquid sludge applicator; haul and spread onto cropland or forageland; and soil incorporate. Dewater the upper part of lagoon by irrigation onto nearby cropland or forageland; dredge sludge from lagoon with dragline or sludge barge; berm an area beside lagoon to receive the sludge so that liquids can drain back into lagoon; allow sludge to dewater; haul and spread with manure spreader onto cropland or forageland; and soil incorporate. Regardless of the method, you must have the sludge material analyzed for waste constituents just as you would your lagoon water. The sludge will contain different nutrient and metal values from the liquid. The application of the sludge to fields will be limited by these nutrients as well as any previous waste applications to that field and crop requirement. Waste application rates will be discussed in detail in Chapter 3. When removing sludge, you must also pay attention to the liner to prevent damage. Close attention by the pumper or drag -line operator will ensure that the lagoon liner remains intact. If you see soil material or the synthetic liner material being disturbed, you should stop the activity immediately and not resume until you are sure that the sludge can be removed without liner injury. If the liner is damaged it must be repaired as soon as possible. Sludge removed from the lagoon has a much higher phosphorus and heavy metal content than liquid. Because of this it should probably be applied to land with low phosphorus and metal levels, as indicated by a soil test, and incorporated to reduce the chance of erosion. Note that if the sludge is applied to fields with very high soil -test phosphores, it should be applied only at rates equal to the crop removal of phosphorus. As with other wastes, always have your lagoon sludge analyzed for its nutrient value. The application of sludge will increase the amount of odor at the waste application site. Extra precaution should be used to observe the wind direction and other conditions which could increase the concern of neighbors. Possible Cam of Lagoon Failure Lagoon failures result in the unplanned discharge of wastewater from the structure. Types of failures include leakage through the bottom or sides, overtopping, and breach of the dam. Assuming proper design and construction, the owner has the responsibility for ensuring structure safety. Items which may lead to lagoon failures include: Modification of the lagoon structure ---an example is the placement of a pipe in the dam without proper design and construction. (Consult an expert in lagoon design before placing any pipes in dams.) Lagoon liquid levels ---high levels are a safety risk. Failure to inspect and maintain the dam. Excess surface water flowing into the lagoon. Liner integrity ---protect from inlet pipe scouring, damage during sludge removal, or rupture from lowering lagoon liquid level below groundwater table. NOTE: If lagoon water is allowed to overtop the dam, the moving water will soon cause gullies to form in the dam. Once this damage starts, it can quickly cause a large discharge of wastewater and possible dam failure.