Dairy Effluent Management: Right Amount at the Right Time
Good effluent management on a dairy farm combines a well-designed system with proper processes to ensure the right amount of effluent gets applied to pasture at the right time.
The following tips from DairyNZ will help identify opportunities to reduce water use and improve efficiency.
Older poor quality water lines and connections are more likely to split and leak so identify problem areas and mark locations of weak spots on a farm map.
Gradually upgrade older sections to help prevent water loss and replace ill-fitting connections to decrease the risk of leaks.
Water lines that are near the surface, run under races or over drains are at particular risk of damage. Mark the locations of these weak spots on a map.
Bury the lines deeper to protect them and if renewing or replacing lines, bury them alongside a fence to give added protection.
To prevent problems where water lines must go under races, place them inside a larger rigid pipe for protection. Where lines cross drains, strap them securely to the bottom side of a pipe or post; bring these water lines to the attention of everyone working on the farm.
Having a check and maintenance system for water troughs that staff are familiar with is an important preventative measure for leaks.
Use time bringing in the cows to look out for anything on the farm that might need attention, such as overflowing or empty water troughs.
Tilting troughs slightly toward the race will make it easier to spot water loss on the drive by.
Carrying spare parts and tools on the farm bike allows for the immediate repair of simple problems.
Schedule in regular trough maintenance; include replacing troublesome ballcocks and checking balls, strings, arms and pins. Have a system to record and sign off these checks.
A farm map can be used to outline details of the water system, highlight areas prone to leaks and losses, identify where improvements could be made and where meters should be/are installed.
Farm water maps are useful for relief milkers and staff so problems can be solved when you are off the farm.
Details should include:
- Water supply
- Main source of supply
- Other sources of water e.g. roof rainwater tank
- Any water treatment systems
- Number of water meters (if any) and location
- Reticulation and storage
- Type of water lines (alkathene, PVC, galvanized, etc.)
- Locations of any isolation valves
- Water lines buried, on the surface, or both
- Storage tank(s) and capacity
- Alert system (e.g. pilot light, pressure gauge) to detect possible water loss
- Farm dairy
- Water cylinder/CIP drum filling automated or manual
- Plate cooler water recycled or once through
- Automated yard cleaning system or hosing
- Where equipment is kept to fix leaks or replace.
