A Comprehensive Approach to Water Quality

The Pollutant Categories

• Parasites & Phosphorus (Animal Waste Storage)

  Animal waste and runoff from storage areas can introduce nutrients and pathogens into nearby water. 

  • BMP Examples: Covered manure storages, roof runoff systems, leachate collection, vegetated treatment areas. 

  • Benefit: Prevents nutrient and bacteria runoff and extends manure spreading flexibility. 

• Pesticides (Storage, Mixing & Loading)

  Improper storage or handling of pesticides near water can cause contamination. 

  • BMP Examples: Enclosed pesticide storage buildings, concrete mixing/loading pads, containment systems. 

  • Benefit: Reduces risk of pesticide spills and protects drinking water supplies. 

• Phosphorus (Fertilizer Storage)

  Nutrient storage facilities can leach phosphorus if not properly managed. 

  • BMP Examples: Secure fertilizer storage, containment structures, covered bins. 

  • Benefit: Prevents fertilizer loss and protects surface and groundwater quality. 

• Parasites – Animal & Manure Management

  Livestock areas can be direct sources of bacteria and pathogens if unmanaged. 

  • BMP Examples: calf facilities, runoff controls, manure storage. 

  • Benefit: Reduces direct livestock access to streams and improves herd health. 

• Nutrient Management

  Nutrients applied to fields can be lost through runoff or leaching without proper planning. 

  • BMP Examples: Nutrient Management Plans, laneways, crossings 

  • Benefit: Improves soil fertility and ensures nutrients stay where crops can use them. 

• Nutrient Management – CREP (Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program)

  Combines nutrient management planning with buffer and exclusion practices under the CREP program. 

  • BMP Examples: Streamside fencing, riparian buffers, livestock exclusion with alternative watering systems. 

  • Benefit: Filters runoff, stabilizes streambanks, and creates wildlife habitat. 

• Nutrients – Concentrated Sources

  Areas where manure, feed, or waste are concentrated can become hot spots for nutrient loss. 

  • BMP Examples: Feed pad management, silage leachate controls, composting facilities, vegetated treatment areas. 

  • Benefit: Keeps nutrients contained and prevents localized pollution. 

• Sediment – Concentrated Sources

  Heavy use areas and disturbed sites often generate sediment-laden runoff. 

  • BMP Examples: Heavy Use Area Protection (HUAP), stabilized driveways and laneways, sediment basins. 

  • Benefit: Prevents erosion and sediment from reaching nearby streams. 

• Sediment – Diffuse Sources

  Erosion across cropland and pastures can reduce soil productivity and degrade water clarity. 

  • BMP Examples: Cover crops, conservation tillage, contour farming, grassed waterways, buffer strips. 

  • Benefit: Keeps soil in place, increases organic matter, and enhances infiltration. 

• Pesticides – Field & Animal Application

  Over-application or improper timing of pesticides can affect ecosystems. 

  • BMP Examples: Integrated Pest Management (IPM), calibrated sprayers, vegetated buffer zones. 

  • Benefit: Reduces pesticide runoff and supports pollinator and aquatic health. 

• Fuel & Other Materials

  Improper handling of fuels, oils, and other farm chemicals can lead to localized contamination. 

  • BMP Examples: Fuel containment pads, secondary containment tanks, secure hazardous material storage. 

  • Benefit: Prevents spills and protects wells and waterways.

Why These Categories Matter

Repair & Replacement