June 22

A North Carolina State University study finds that no single alternative waste management exists that meets the public's demand for environmental safety and ensures the economic stability of livestock producers.

Researchers at the North Carolina State University said they "do not believe there is a single alternative waste management technology now available that provides the level of environmental safety many people seem to want while also ensuring the economic well being of agriculture." The paper, released last month, was prepared by faculty members of the NCSU College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Another issue in the state is whether lagoons should be closed. But because the contents of existing lagoons would require disposal, "there are serious economic and environmental concerns associated with closing all the state's lagoons," the report said.

North Carolina Pork Council President Deborah Johnson said the paper also should help "concerned citizens understand that, despite public perception, properly built and maintained lagoon/land application systems remain the most environmentally sound and efficient means of manure treatment available to North Carolina's producers."

Under this system, natural bacteria break down manure solids once solids and liquids are deposited into the lagoon. The nutrient rich water that remains is applied to crops as a fertilizer. Lagoons are sized for the amount of manure to be treated, and lagoons built in the 1990s are lined to minimize leakage and protect ground water.