820203_Permit Renewal Application 2019_20190410

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, 2019.
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: 82-0203 Certificate Of Coverage Number:
2. Facility Name: David Merritt Farm
3. Landowner's Name (same as on the Waste Management Plan): Michael D Merritt
4. Landowner's Mailing Address: 1897 Merritt Rd
City: Magnolia State: NC
Telephone Number: 910-532-2862 Ext E-mail:
5. Facility's Physical Address: 3170 Waycross Cad
City: Mai-nolia State: NC
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"):
10. Operator Name (OIC): Michael D. Merritt
11. Lessee's Name (if there is not a Lessee, write "None"):
12. Indicate animal operation type and number:
Current Permit: Operations Type
Swine - Feeder to Finish
Operation Types:
Presta a Farms Inc
Phone No.:
Allowable Count
2,940
AWS820203
Zip: 28453
Zip: 28453
OIC #: 19095.
Swine
Cattle
Dry Poultry
del-lign
Wean to Finish
Dairy Calf
Non Laying Chickens
Horses - Horses
Wean to Feeder
Dairy Heifer
Laying Chickens
Horses - Other
Farrow to Finish
Milk Cow
Pullets
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

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
I157-0
Mail one (1) copy of the Certified Animal Waste Management Plan (CAWMP) with this completed and signed application
as required by NC General Statutes 143-215.10C(d) to the address below.
The CAWMP must include the following components:
The most recent Waste Utilization Plan (WUP), si ned 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 MRCS Standard specifications
I�A site map/schematic
'.3/,Emergency Action Plan
VI iscet Control Checklist with chosen best management practices noted
dor Control Checklist with choscn best management practices noted
IV 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
our 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: [e-mail]

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 information 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: N A[ c tie Title: 0 I'V 11r
Signature: Date: -31j-qJ1 �
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: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
FORM: RENEWAL -STATE GENERAL 02/2019

ROY COOPER
Governor
MICHAEL S. REGAN
Secretary
LINDA CULPEPPER
Director
NORTH CAROLINA
Envfronmential Quality
February 27, 2019
Michael D Merritt
David Merritt Farm
1897 Merritt Rd
Magnolia, NC 28453
Subject: Application for Renewal of Coverage for Expiring State General Permit
Dear Permittee:
Your facility is currently approved for operation under one of the Animal Waste Operation State Non -Discharge General Permits,
which expire on September 30, 2019. Copies of the new animal waste operation State Non -Discharge General Permits are available
at htto-//deq;ne.pov/abouttdivisionsJwater-resources/water-quality_-regional-operations/afo or by writing or calling:
NCDEQ-DWR
Animal Feeding Operations Program
1636 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1636
Telephone number: [phone]
In order to assure your continued coverage under
the State
Nan -Discharge _General Permits, you must submit an application for.
permit coves e to the Division. Enclosed you
will find a
"Request for Certificate of Coverage Facility
Currently Covered by an
Expiring State Non-Dischar,&e General Permit."
The
application form must_ ,be completedsigned and
returned by April 2019.
Please note that you must include one (1)
cony
of ,the
Certified Animal Waste Maaaament
Plan (CAWMP) with the
completed and signed application form. A
list
of items
included in the CAWMP can be found
on PM 2 of the renewal
application form.
Failure to request renewal of your coverage under a general permit within the time period specified may result in a civil penalty.
Operation of your facility without coverage under a valid general permit would constitute a violation of NCGS 143-215.1 and could
result in assessments of civil penalties of up to $25,000 per day.
If you have any questions about the State Non -Discharge General Permits, the enclosed application, or any related matter please feel
free to contact the Animal Feeding Operations Branch staff at 919-707-9100.
Sincerely,
in
/ Pr�r
Jon Risgaard, Section Chief
Animal Feeding Operations and Groundwater Section
Enclosures
cc (w/o enclosures): Fayetteville Regional Office, Water Quality Regional Operations Section
Sampson County Soil and Water Conservation District
AFOG Section Central Files - AWS820203
Presta a Farms Inc
North Cam,=neDepartmerntofEnnonmoot&qua€ey I 0=vs.oarofW8terResourCex
312 N Se •sbuty St 11836 M8-? Serwtae C4Wter 1 Rene>%*, Nortfn Cwot+ne 27599-1fi3$
�� 939.747.9WO

WASTE UTILIZATION PLAN
Friday, March 21, 2014
Producer: Melva Merritt
Farm Name:
David Merritt Farm 82-203
3250 Waycross Rd
Magnolia,NC 28453
Telephone # :
[phone]
Type of Operation :
Feeder to Finish Swine
Number of Animals:
2940 hogs design capacity
Application Method: Irrigation
l
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.
Page 1 of 10

AMOUNT OF WASTE PRODUCED PER YEAR (gallons, ft3, tons, etc.)
2940 hogs X 1.9 tons waste/hogs/year = 5586 tons
AMOUNT OF PLANT AVAILABLE NITROGEN (PAN) PRODUCED PER YEAR
2940 hogs X 1.7 Ibs PAN/hogs/year = 4998 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 YIELD LBS AW COMM ACRES LBS AW APPLIC.
DETERMINING PHASE CODE N/ACRE N/ACRE USED TIME
8112 10 _ FACEVILLE 0-2% C 115• 128.81 0 5.95 766.36 MAR-JUN
8112 * 10 FACEVILLE 0 2% W 60 121.2' 0 5.95 721.14 SEP-APR
8112 * 10 C-E- 11LLE 0-2% SB 38 148.2 0• 5.95 881-79 APR-SEP 15
8112 14 ^AGRAM 0-6% -t BC _ 46, 225.4• Q 3.78 852.012 MAR-SEP
8112 14 WAGRAM 0-6% SG 1 50 0, 3.781 189 SEP-MAY
�8112 15 LUMBEE DRAINED SA 3.23. 155.04 0' 3.81 589.152 APR-SEP15
81 22 - 15 LUMBEE DRAINED SG 1 75 0: 3.8 285 SEP-MAY
8112 16 LUMBEE DRAINED SA 3.23: 155.04 Q`. 1.66 257.3G6 APR-SEP15
8112 16 LUMBEE DRAINED SG rt 1 75: 0: 1.66 124-5• SEP-MAY
8112 * 17 LUMBEE DRAINED - - C 115 1242 0j 2.91 �361.422 MAR-JUN
LUMBEE DRAINED W 501 97- 0 2.91 ^ 282.27; SEP-APR
8112 * 17 LUMBEE DRAINED SB 38 147.06 0 2.91 427.945 APR-SEP 15
8112 4 _LUMBEE DRAINED BH - 4.5� 194.4' 0 1.76 342.144 MAR-SEP
8112 4 LUMBEE DRAINED � SG 1 1 50 0 1.76 88 SEP-MAY
8112 J 5 �J NS ALL -, - Y BC 4.251 182.75i 01- 13 2375.75 MAR-SEP
8112 5^ 'JOHNS ALL SG 1 501 0 13 650 SEP-MAY
8112 6 JOHNS ALL BC 4.25 182.75• 0f 2.55 466.013 MAR-SEP
8112 6 JOHNS ALL SG 1 503 01 2.55 127.51 SEP-MAY
- 8112 9 FACEVILLE 0-2% f C 115 128.81 _ 0 4.08 525.504' MAR-JUN
- - --- -
8112 9 (IFACEVILLE 0-2% W 60 121.2i 0 4.08 494.496 SEP-APR
8112 9 FACEVILLE 0-2% SB 38 148-21 ❑ 4.08 604.6561APR-SEP 15
TOTALS: 8879.23
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 10

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
CORN
HYBRID BERMUDAGRASS-CONTROLLED GRAZED
BH
HYBRID BERMUDAGRASS-HAY
SG
SMALL GRAIN OVERSEEDED
SB
SOYBEANS
SA
SUMMER ANNUALS
W
WHEAT
UNITS
LBS N/UNIT
BUSHELS
1.25
TONS
50
T ^
TONS
50
AC
50
BUSHELS
4
.l-
AC
-
--110 --
Page 3 of 10

TOTALS FROM TABLES 1 AND 2
ACRES LBS AW
N USED
TABLE 1 39.49i 8,879j
TOTALS: 39.491 8,879
AMOUNT OF N PRODUCED: 4,998
-BALANCE -3,881
*** 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 1087.8 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 (in/hr) AMT (inches)
,8112
-14
WAGRAM 0-6%
SG
BC
W
SG f
0.60
0.60
*1
*1
;8112
14
WAGRAM 0-6% T
LUMBEE DRAINED
LUMBEE DRAINED _
LUMBEE DRAINED
;8112
�T*17
0.60
*1
B112
-15,-16,-4
0.40
01
;8112
*17
SB
0.40
*1
6112
-15,-16
LUMBEE DRAINED
SA
0.40 _
*1
6112
*17
LUMBEE DRAINED_
LUMBEE DRAINED
JOHNS ALL
C
BH
SG
0.40
0.40
*1
6112
4
_I
*1
B112
-5.-6
0.50
*1
8112
5,6
*10, *9 —
JOHNS ALL
FACEVILLE 0-2%� - y -
FACEVILLE 0-2% ^ --
FACEVILLE 0-2%
BC
W
0.50
*1
6112
0.50
*1
B112
*10, *9
S13
C
_ 0.40
0.40
*1
*1
B112
*10, *9
Page 4 of 10

* 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.
Page 5 of 10

NARRATIVE OF OPERATION
The latest nitrogen coefficient and RYE's were used in developing this Waste Utilization
Plan. Fields 5 & 6 will be sprigged in coastal bermuda in Spring 2014.
Page 6of10

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 7 of 10

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 8 of 10

NAME OF FARM: David Merritt Farm 82-203
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 andlor 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 FACILITY OWNER: Melva Merritt
.
SIGNATURE:
Lil 7, U M.. DATE.
NAME OF MANAGER (if different from owner): r r' = 1'. 4
SIGNATURE: DATE:
NAME OF TECHNICAL SPECIALIST: Curtis Barwick
AFFILIATION: Barwick Ag Services
ADDRESS (AGENCY): 103 Country Club Circle
Clinton, NC 28328
(910) -L38 -100
SIGNATURE: DATE:
please print
-2
3` Lf.
Page 9 of 9

USDA Eat, l osl
1 Tra ;i, d 112
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February 25, 2014
Sowce: USDA Farm Service Ag-17C y - 24f 2 NAIP Inagery
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7br-nited Restrictions
OExernptfrom Conservation Compliance
Provisions
12
32.92
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USDA F$A wraps are for FSA program adminirtralron only, This map does not represent a iegalsurvey or raflect acii,.,i wunership; fattier' dEpict; information provided diraatly frorn the producer andtoe NAIP
imagery, ilia ptoduw acoopt: tI) a data laG is' and 3ssumfrs all ri;ks axsooiatad wRh 03 use. Tha USDA Farm 5ery . r gwnrry rasumes no mSpansitrilityfor aotuai pr aansuquant;al dam:rga inourrwd as a rasuk
of any Wer's r0anoe on thu data oljWde FSA programs. Wetland WenHfiers do not repres enttheske, shape, or gpeoffio deterrnlnatlor, of the area. Refer to your original determination (CPA-025 and attaohad

EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
PHONE NUMBERS
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY (DWQ)
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SERVICES (EMS)
SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT (SWCD)
NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE (NRCS)
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE (CES)
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.
1. 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 flow 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) Evaluate and eliminate the reason(s) that cause 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 leaks prior to restarting pumps.
D. Leakage from flush systems, houses, solid separators - action include:
a) Stop recycle pump.
b) Stop irrigation pump.
c) Make sure siphon occurs.
d) Stop all flow in the house, flush systems, or solid separators.
E. Leakage from base or sidewall of lagoon. Often this is seepage as opposed to flowing leaks -
possible action:
a) Dig a small sump or ditch 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.

3.
4.
5
c) Have a professional evaluate the condition of the side walls and the lagoon bottom as soon
as possible.
2. Assess the extent of the spill and note any obvious damages
a. Did the waste reach surface waters?
b. Approximately how much was released and for what duration?
c. Any damage notes, 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 future rain event cause the spill to reach surface waters?
g. Are potable water wells in danger (either on or off the property)?
In. How much reached surface waters?
Contact appropriate agencies.
a. During normal business hours call your DWQ regional office; Phone #, After hours,
emergency number: [phone]. Your phone call should include: your name, facility
number, telephone number, the details of the incident from item 2 above, the exact
location of the facility, the location or direction of the movement of the spill, weather and
wind conditions. The corrective measures that have been under taken, and the
seriousness of the situation.
b. If the spill leaves property or enters surface waters, call local EMS phone number.
c. Instruct EMS to contact local Health Department.
d. Contact CE's phone number, local SWCD office phone number and the local NRCS
office for advice / technical assistance phone number.
If none of the above works call 911 or the Sheriff's Department and explain your problem to
them and ask the person to contact the proper agencies for you.
Contact the contractor of your choice to begin repair or problem to minimize offsite damage.
a. Contractors Name: P��� ��`� �- rt CMS
b. Contractors Address. n
c . Contractors Phone: GI j �; �i �� 517 / 0 0
Contact the technical specialist who certified the lagoon (NRCS,Consulting Engineer, etc.)
�, I
a. Name: ' ,7�, -V
y , OO. -1 5
Phone:
Implement procedures as advised by DWQ and technical assistance agencies to rectify
the damage, repair the system, and reassess the waste management plan to keep
problems with release of wastes from happening again.

Insect Control Checklist for Animal Operations
Source Cause -- SMPs to Control Insects Site S ecifc Practices
Flush gutters - Accumulation of solids
Lagoons and pits ~• Crusted solids
Excessive vegetative - Decaying vegetation
growth
Lip u id S vstems
Er Flush system is designed and operated sufficiently
to remove accumulated solids from gutters as
designed
® Remove bridging of accumulated solids at
discharge
® Maintain lagoons, settling basins and pits where
pest breeding is apparent to minimize the crusting
of solids to a depth of no more than 6 to 8 inches
,ver more than 30 percent of surface
� Maintain vegetative control along banks of ^�
lagoons and other impoundments to prevent
accumulation of decaying vegetative matter along
water's edge on impoundment's perimeter.
Dry Svsterns
Feeders - Feed spillage ® Design, operate, and maintain feed systems
(e.g., bunkers and troughs) to minimize the
accumulation of decaying wastage
® Clean up spillage on a routine basis (e.g., i- to 10-
day interval during summer; 15- to 30-day interval
during winter)
AMIC - November 11, 1996, page 1

Insect Control Checklist for Animal Operations
Source Cause
BMPs to Control Insects Site Specific Practices
Feed storage Accumulations of feed ®
_
Reduce moisture accumulation within and around
residues
immediate perimeter of feed storage areas by
ensuring drainage is away from site and/or providing
adequate containment (e.g., covered bin for
brewer's grain and similar high moisture grain
products)
®
Inspect for and remove or break up accumulated
solids in filter strips around feed storage as needed
Animal holding areas Accumulations of animal El
Eliminate low areas that trap moisture along fences _ ry
wastes and feed wastage
and other locations where waste accumulates and
isturba.nce by animals is minimal
gr
Maintain fence rows and filter strips around animal
holding areas to minimize accumulations of wastes
(i.e., inspect for and remove or break up
_
accumulated solids as needed)
Dry manure handling Accumulations of animal ®
Remove spillage on a routine basis (e.g.,
systems wastes
7- to 10-day interval during summer; 15- to 30-day
interval during winter) where manure is loaded for
land application or disposal
®
Provide for adequate drainage around manure
stockpiles
®
Inspect for and remove or break up accumulated
wastes in filter strips around stockpiles and manure
handling areas as needed
For more information contact:
Cooperative Extension Service, ]Department of Entomology, Box 7613, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7613.
AMIC - November 11, 1996, page 2

"'wine Farm Waste Management Odor Control Checklist
Source
Cause
BMPs to Minimize Odor Site Specific Practices
Farmstead
• Swine production
vegetative or wooded buffers
t / ,,Recommended best management practices
Good judgment and common sense
Animal body
• Dirty manure -covered
WDry floors
surfaces
animals
Floor surfaces
• Wet manure -covered floors
Slotted floors
Waterers located over slotted floors
0 Feeders at high end of solid floors
0 Scrape manure buildup from floors
® 9nderfloor ventilation for drying
Manure collection
• Urine
Frequent manure removal by flush, pit recharge,
pits
• Partial microbial
or scrape
decomposition
0 der€loor ventilation
Ventilation exhaust
! Volatile gases
Fan maintenance
fans
• Dust
Sr icient air movement
Indoor surfaces
• Dust
Washdown between groups of animals
0 Feed additives
0 Feeder covers
® Feed delivery downspout extenders to feeder
covers
Flush tanks
• Agitation of recycled lagoon
0 Flush tank covers
liquid while tanks are filling
0 Extend fill lines to near bottom of tanks with
anti -siphon vents
Flush alleys
• Agitation during wastewater
0 Underfloor flush with underfloor ventilation
conveyance
AMOC - November 11, 1996, page 1

Swine Farm Waste Management Odor Control Checklist
Source Cause BMPs to Minimize Odor Site Specific Practices
Pit recharge points • Agitation of recycled lagoon 0 Extend recharge lines to near bottom of pits with
liquid while pits are filling anti -siphon vents
Lift stations • Agitation during sump tank ® Sump tank covers
filling and drawdown
Outside drain
collection or junction
boxes
End of drainpipes
at lagoon
Lagoon surfaces
• Agitation during wastewater ® Box covers
conveyance
• Agitation during wastewater ® Extend discharge point of pipes underneath
conveyance -�goon liquid level
• Volatile gas emissions
• Biological mixing
• Agitation
Irrigation sprinkler • High pressure agitation
nozzles • Wind drift
Storage tank or • Partial microbial
basin surface decomposition
• Mixing while filling
• Agitation when emptying
■ � oiler lagoon liquid capacity T�
0' Correct lagoon startup procedures
® Minimum surface area -to -volume ratio
® Minimum agitation when pumping
® Mechanical aeration
C] Proven biological additives
Ell' IFrigate on dry days with little or no wind
® Minimum recommended operating pressure
® Pump intake near lagoon liquid surface
® Pump from second -stage lagoon
® Bottom or midlevel loading
® Tank covers
® Basin surface mats of solids
M Proven biological additives or oxidants
AMOC - November 11, 1996, page 2

Swine Farm Waste Management Odor Control Checklist
Source rCause 1BMPs to Minimize Odor Site Specific Practices _
Settling basin surface • Partial microbial C3 tend drainpipe outlets underneath liquid level
decomposition move settled solids regularly
Mixing while filling
• Agitation when emptying
Manure, slurry, or • Agitation when spreading 173 Soil injection of slurry/sludges
sludge spreader . Volatile gas emissions ® Wash residual manure from spreader after use
outlets ® Proven biological additives or oxidants
Uncovered manure, • Volatile gas emissions while ® Soil injection of slurry/sludges
slurry, or sludge on drying
field surfaces
Dead animals
• Carcass decomposition
® Soil incorporation within 48 hours
® Spread in thin uniform layers for rapid drying
U
ven biological additives or oxidants
Proper disposition of carcasses
Dead animal disposal • Carcass decomposition 13 Complete covering of carcasses in burial pits
pits 0 Proper location/construction of disposal pits
Incinerators • Incomplete combustion 0 Secondary stack burners
Standing water • Improper drainage ® Grade and landscape such that water drains away
around facilities ! Microbial decomposition of from facilities
organic matter
Manure tracked onto . Poorly maintained access Farm access road maintenance
public roads from roads
farm access
AMOC - November 11, 1996, page 3

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
N.C. Pork Producers Assoc.
NCSU Agricultural Communications
Florida Cooperative Extension
AMOC - November 11, 1996, page 4

Version —November 26, 2018
Mortality Management Methods
Indicate which method(s) will be implemented.
When selecting mulfrple 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 be at 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.
OComplete incineration according to 02 NCAC 52C .0102.
❑ ❑ 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).
❑ 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).
❑ 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.
Signature of Farm Owner/Manager Date
Signature of Technical Specialist
Date

Operator:David Merritt County:
Sampson
Date:
05/30/94
Distance to nearest residence (other
than owner):
0.0
feet
1. AVERAGE LIVE WEIGHT (ALW)
0 sows (farrow to finish)
x
1417
lbs. =
0
lbs
0 sows (farrow to feeder)
x
522
lbs. =
0
lbs
2940 head (finishing only)
x
135
lbs. =
396900
lbs
0 sows (farrow to wean)
x
433
lbs. =
0
lbs
0 head (wean to feeder)
x
30
lbs. =
0
lbs
Describe other :
0
Total Average Live Weight = 396900 lbs
?. MINIMUM REQUIRED TREATMENT VOLUME OF LAGOON
Volume = 396900 lbs. ALW x Treatment Volume(CF)/lb. ALW
Treatment Volume(CF)/lb. ALW = 1 CF/lb. ALW
Volume = 396900 cubic feet
3. STORAGE VOLUME FOR SLUDGE ACCLTI,7JLATION Sludge Accumulation Not Computed At
Owners Request Remove Sludge
Volume = 0.0 cubic feet As Needed
4. TOTAL DESIGNED -VOLUME
Inside top length (feet) --------------------- 335.0
Inside top width (feet)---------------------- 220.0 '
Top of dike elevation (feet) ----------------- 49.3
Bottom of lagoon elevation (feet)----------------- 37.3
Freeboard ( feet) --------------------------------- 1.0
5
Side slopes (inside lago-__,)------------------ 3.0
Total design volume .:sing prismoidal formula
SS; END1 SS/E�;D'�3 SS/c=nE' SS/SID
(E
�? LENGTH WIDTH DEPTH
J 3 `I ? n 3 Q. 0 114.0 1 1 . 0
AREA OF TOP
LENGTH * WIDTH =
329.0 214,0 70406 (AREA OF TOP)
AREA OF
BOTTOM
LENGTH
* WIDTH
263.0
148.0
38924
(AREA
OF BOTTO')
AREA OF
MIDSE('TION;
LENGTH
* WIDTH � 4
29 6. 0
1 ° i 0
'AR.EP.
Off' MT-C'7CTIO�T + 4 )
n U. FT.
— FLl p.
- �r_.EA. T^R
F:
- _ ;.':E�, ?�.TDSErT=^,;�
,
r TTna 1 .. r
+ AREA 8011� �� DEI'TI:/6
.. �;
:c.' _.r,
.7ailable = 5933" CU. F^.

5. TEMPORARY STORAGE REQUIRED
DRAINAGE AREA:
Lagoon (top of dike)
Length * Width =
335.0 220.0 73700.0 square feet
Buildings (roof and lot water)
0.0 square feet Describe this area.
TOTAL DA 73700.0 square feet
Design temporary storage period to be 180 days.
5A. Volume of waste produced
Feces & urine production in gal./day per 135 lb, ALW 1.37
Volume = 396900 lbs. ALW/135 lbs. ALW * 1.37 gal/day 180 days
Volume = 725004 gals. or 96925.7 cubic feet
5B. Volume of wash water
This is the amount of fresh water used for washing floors or volume
of fresh water used for a flush system. Flush systems that recirculate
the lagoon water are accounted for in 5A. ,
Volume = 0.0 gallons/day * 180 days storage/7.48 gall-n-
per rF
Volume = 0.0 cubic feet
5C. Volume of rainfall in excess of evaporation
Use period of tii,ce when rainfall exceeds evaporation by largest amount.
180 days e<-..cess rainfall = .7.0 inches
Volume = 7,0 in * DA / 12 inches per foot
Volume = 42991.7 cubic feet

5D. Volume of 25 year - 24 hour storm
Volume = 7.0 inches / 12 inches per foot * DA
Volume = 42991.7 cubic feet
TOTAL REQUIRED TEMPORARY STORAGE
5A.
96926
cubic
feet
5B.
0
cubic
feet
5C.
42992
cubic
feet
5D.
42992
cubic
feet
TOTAL 182909 cubic feet
6. SUMMARY
Temporary storage period=====_______________>
180
days
Rainfall in excess of evaporation======____=>
7.0
inches
25 year - 24 hour rainfall====______________>
7.0
inches
Freeboard=====___________________-_-_-_--___>
1.0
feet
Side slopes_________________________________>
3.0
: 1
Inside top length________ ___________________>
335.0
feet
Inside top width=___________________________>
220.0
feet
Top of dike elevation_______________________>
49.3
feet
Bottom of lagoon elevation__________________>
37.3
feet
Total required vclume_______________________>
579809
cu.
ft.
Actual design
593329
cu.
ft.
Seascnal high waterta'ble elevation (SHWT)===>
44.5
feet
Stcp trumping __ev. ____� -----____----_- - ` '>
45.4
feet
?Must be cr = c the SH�rrT e1ev.-------- =>
d4.5
Feet
Must be or = to min. req. treatment el.=>
43.3
feet
Required minimum treatment volume=====______>
396900
cu.
ft.
Volume at stop pumping elevation=====_______>
40i559
cu.
ft.
----------------------
Start pumping eleT.-.----------------------___�
7..
f r
_ee_
M� a v.,tt f fr ebb cl c ^[ r
. Est ue _ r. mom c e x, ar. � .. rainfa
� i
1
Actual volume 1-3 25 rr.- 24 hr. rainfa"_=7
550337
cu.
ft.
`Jolu-ie at start p:_�,.^piny elevation=====______>
544839
cu.
Lt.
Required volu:re to be pumped=------______-_->
139917
cu.
ft.
1 T e planned ed be .�'�'..un,p d===7_=====>
Al ��a� �'Q i1.l iii +_ t'�_��_:1 �.. to y �f e1.--- i
1 L�.7 �80
_ _.�.�U
i. �=
ra-
1_.. .
N=in. thickness of soil liner when required==>
1,9
fee`
7. DESIGNED BY: Lanier h Houston CHECi,ED BY:
DATE: S/3 t,/ g 4 DATE:
NOTE Sr-E i, mm 1 C1717^ ,7 SS TEL I mTT 7- fT T+ rT? nT. rA'
COMME ITS .

SHEET 1 OF 2
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE PLAN
------------------------------
This lagoon is designed for waste treatment (permanent storage) and
180 days of temporary storage. The time required for the planned
fluid level (permanent and temporary storage) to be reached may vary
due to site conditions, weather, flushing operations, and the amount
of fresh water added to the system.
The designed temporary storage consists of 180 days storage for:
(1) waste from animals and (2) excess rainfall after evaporation. Also
included is storage for the 25 year - 24 hour storm for the location.
The volume of waste generated from a given number of animals will be
fairly constant throughout the year and from year to year, but excess
rainfall will vary from year to year. The 25 year rainfall will not
be a factor to consider in an annual pumping cycle, but this storage
volume must always be available.
A maximum elevation is determined in each design to begin
pumping and this is usually the outlet invert of pipe(s) from
building(s). If the outlet pipe is not installed at the elevation to
begin pumping, a permanent marker must be installed at this elevation
to indicate when pumping should begin. An elevation must be established
to stop pumping to maintain lagoon treatment depth.
Pumping can be started or stopped at any time between these two
elevations for operating convenience as site conditions permit, such as
weather, soils, crop, and equipment in order to apply waste without
runoff or leaching.
Land application of waste water is recognized as an acceptable
method of disposal. Methods of application include solid set,
center pivot, guns, and traveling gun irrigation. Care should be
taken when applying waste to prevent damage to crops.
The following items are to ne ^arried out:
1. It is strongly recommended that the treatment lagoon be pre -
charged to 1/2 its, capacity to prevent excessive odors during
start-up. Pre -charging reduces the concentration of the initial
waste entering the lagoon thereby reducing odors. Solids should be
covered with effluent at all times. When precharging is col:M ete,
flush buildings with recycled lagoon _iquid. Fresh water should not
be used for f lushi ng after i_._ t ia1 f i l l
2. The attached waste utiiizat41 41on n,lan shc11 be followed. This
plan recommends sampling and testing of waste (see attachment)
before land application.
3. Begin temporary storage pump -out of the lagoon when fluid level
reaches the elevation 47.6 as .msarked b. permanent marker. Stop pump -
out when the fluid level reaches elevation 45.4 This temporary°
storage, less 25 y%r- 24 hr storm, c.`litaLns 1 3q91. Cubic feet or
4 ,582 gal 1ons ,

SHEET 2 OF 2
4. The recommended maximum amount to apply per irrigation is
one (1) inch and the recommended maximum application rate is 0.3
inch per hour. Refer to the waste utilization plan for further details.
5. Keep vegetation on the embankment and areas adjacent to the
lagoon mowed annually. Vegetation should be fertilized as needed
to maintain a vigorous stand.
b. Repair any eroded areas or areas damaged by rodents and
establish in vegetation.
7. All surface runoff is to be diverted from the lagoon to stable
outlets.
8. Keep a minimum of 25 feet of grass vegetated buffer around
waste utilization fields adjacent to perennial streams. Waste will
not be applied in open ditches. Do not pump within 200 feet of a
residence or within 100 feet of a well. Waste shall be applied in a
manner not to reach other property and public right-of-ways.
9. The Clean Water Act of 1977 prohibits the discharge of
pollutants into waters of the United States. The Department of
Environment, Health, and Natural Resources, Division of Environ-
mental Management, has the responsibility for enforcing this law.
b

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE PLAN
Proper lagoon 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 a
thunderstorm season in the summertime. This means that at the first sign of plant growth in the
later winter / early spring, irrigation according to a farm waste management plan should be done
whenever the land in 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 starting to irrigated does
not leave room for storing excess water during extended wet periods. Overflow from the lagoon for
any reason except a 25-year, 24-hour storm is a 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 fertilized 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 or 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 lagoon
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 of 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. adequate 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 overflow problem from a surface water diversion or there may be seepage into
the lagoon from the surrounding land.
Lagoon Operation
Startup:
1. 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 lagoon liquid
volume. This seeding should occur 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.
Minimize feed wastage and spillage by keeping feeders adjusted. This will reduce
the amount of solids entering the lagoon.
Management:
■ 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 level. (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.
• Don not pump the lagoon liquid level lower than 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
phosphors, 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 Causes 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.
7

Systems Calibration
Information presented in manufacturer's charts are based on average operation
conditions with relatively new equipment. Discharge rates and application rates change
over time as equipment gets older and components wear. In particular, pump wear
tends to reduce operating pressure and flow. With continued use, nozzle wear results in
an increase in the nozzle opening which will increase the discharge rate while
decreasing the wetted diameter.
You should be aware that operating the system differently than assumed in the design
will alter the application rate, diameter of coverage, and subsequently the application
uniformity. For example, operating the system with excessive pressure results in smaller
droplets, greater potential for drift, and accelerates wear of the sprinkler nozzle.
Clogging of nozzles can result in pressure increase. Plugged intakes or crystallization of
mainlines will reduce operating pressure. Operating below design pressure greatly
reduces the coverage diameter and application uniformity.
For the above reason, you should calibrate your equipment on a regular basis to ensure
proper application rates and uniformity. Calibration at least once every three years is
recommended. Calibration involves collecting and measuring flow at several locations in
the application area. Any number of containers can be used to collect flow and
determine the application rate. Rain gauges work best because they already have a
graduated scale from which to read the application amount without having to perform
additional calculations. However, pans, plastic buckets, jars, or anything with a uniform
opening and cross-section can be used provided the liquid collected can be easily
transferred to a scaled container for measuring.
For stationary sprinklers, collection containers should be located randomly throughout
the application area at several distances from sprinklers. For traveling guns, sprinklers
should be located along a transect perpendicular to the direction of pull. Set out
collection containers 25 feet apart along the transect on both sides of the gun cart. You
should compute the average application rate for all nonuniformity of the application. On
a windless day, variation between containers of more than 30 percent is cause for
concern. You should contact your irrigation dealer or technical specialist for assistance.
*Reprinted for Certification Training for Operations of Animal Waste Management Systems Manual