There are a number of options available for farmers to store slurry from underground storage tanks to lagoons. This article focuses on the advantages and cost-effectiveness of using slurry lagoons.
What is slurry?
Slurry is an effective resource for farmers to utilise. Made from a mixture of manure and water, it acts as a natural and nutritious fertiliser that helps grass and other crops to thrive. Some dairy farmers distribute slurry onto the land; others inject it directly into the soil.
What is a slurry lagoon?
Slurry lagoons are used to store slurry which is liquid waste, such as animal manure. This can later be repurposed as fertiliser, which makes it an excellent resource to reduce the negative environmental impact of some types of fertiliser. Storing slurry can also help to reduce costs, as farmers can avoid the expense of purchasing commercial fertilisers.
Choosing a slurry lagoon over other storage options has several advantages, which makes it a popular choice among farmers. In this blog, we will discuss the reasons why slurry lagoons are a wise investment for farmers.
What are the advantages of having a slurry lagoon?
- Cost-Effective - One of the primary reasons farmers choose slurry lagoons is their cost-effectiveness. Slurry lagoons are relatively inexpensive to construct and maintain, making them an effective long-term investment.
- Environmental Benefits - Slurry lagoons help to reduce the negative impact of agricultural waste on the environment. They allow farmers to store waste in a contained area, reducing the risk of contamination and pollution. In addition, the contents of the lagoons can be used as fertiliser, reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers, and recycling waste materials is an important part of modern day agricultural practices.
- Safe Storage - Slurry lagoons are designed to store waste safely. They are constructed with durable materials that are resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring that the contents of the lagoon remain safe and secure at all times.
- Easy to Use - Slurry lagoons are easy to use, and simple to maintain. Frequent cleaning and pumping are the only aspects that need regular maintenance.
- Versatile - Slurry lagoons are versatile, making them an ideal choice for farmers who need to store a variety of different types of waste. They are suitable for storing animal manure, as well as other types of liquid waste, such as wastewater from food processing.
Take advantage of the new slurry storage grant from the UK government
In December 2022, the UK government launched a new slurry storage grant scheme as part of the Farming Investment Fund. The grant will help livestock farmers already using a slurry system to upgrade their slurry storage and provide up to six months storage capacity. It also involves using slurry liners made from impermeable materials such as Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Butyl rubber, Elvaloy and PVC, all of which can be supplied from Cotterill Civils.
Grants available range between £25,000 and £250,000 to successful applicants. Eligible farmers could receive a maximum 50 percent grant towards the cost of:
- A range of slurry store types
- Impermeable covers and liners
- Extra equipment like pumps, pipes and safety equipment
Whether you are a small-scale farmer or a large-scale operation, a slurry lagoon can help you store waste efficiently and safely, while reducing your impact on the environment. Considering the environmental impact of agricultural methods is incredibly important within the industry, especially in 2023.
How to design a slurry lagoon
It is important to note that slurry lagoons must be designed and constructed properly to ensure that they are safe and effective. For example, it is important that the right materials are used. If they are not constructed properly or are not properly managed, they can pose a risk to human health and the environment. Additionally, they can emit odours and can be aesthetically unappealing.
How To Maintain A Slurry Lagoon
Proper maintenance of a slurry lagoon is crucial for its effective and safe operation. Here are some top tips for maintaining your slurry lagoon:
1. Regular inspection is key
It is important to conduct regular visual inspections of the lagoon and its surrounding area to check for any signs of damage or leaks. Areas to inspect include the lagoon walls, lining, and inlet/outlet structures. Regular inspections can help identify potential issues early and prevent high-cost repairs.
2. Clean the lagoon regularly
The lagoon should be emptied and cleaned regularly to remove any solids or debris that may accumulate over time. This will help prevent excessive build-up and ensure the lagoon has adequate storage capacity.
3. Proper use of agitation equipment4. Proper application of slurry
When applying slurry as fertiliser, ensure it is applied at the appropriate time and rate to avoid excessive buildup of nutrients in the soil. Over-application of slurry can lead to environmental issues such as runoff and groundwater contamination which will have a detrimental effect on the surroundings.
5. Surface water should be properly managed
Surface water should be managed properly to avoid it entering the lagoon, which can lead to contamination and excessive water levels. Surface water can be diverted away from the lagoon using drainage ditches or other drainage methods.
6. Monitor and maintain the lagoon lining
The lining of the lagoon should be regularly monitored for leaks and damage. If any issues are found, they should be prioritised and repaired immediately to prevent contamination of nearby water sources.
7. Have a contingency plan
In the event of a spill or leak, have a contingency plan in place to minimise the negative impact on the environment and nearby water sources. This should include procedures for emergency response and a potentially large clean-up.
At Cotterill Civils, we offer a full turnkey package to suit your individual needs. We can design, supply and install slurry lagoons, giving you peace of mind that your project is in the capable hands of our industry experts.
If you have any questions about slurry lagoons and services we offer, please contact 0121 351 3230 to speak with one of our industry experts.
How can we help?
At Cotterill Civils, we supply the compliant geo-membrane liners which are specifically designed for agricultural slurry storage lagoons.
Alternatively, we offer the full slurry storage lagoon package including supply, design and construction of the lagoon. Our installation team has over 25 years of experience in rural construction and are ISO:9001 and ISO:14001 compliant. We pride ourselves on delivering top quality customer service from start to finish. With our full slurry lagoon package, you can be rest assured that your project is in safe hands with our industry experts, who will get the job done efficiently and to the best standard.
Give us a call today on 0121 351 3230 to speak to one of our industry experts.
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