Manure and Nutrient Management plans balance nutrient application with crop removal of nutrients in order to prevent excess nutrients from seeping into groundwater and being carried in runoff to local waterways. Nutrients in runoff from farming operations are considered nonpoint source pollution and affect local streams, the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay.

Manure Management Plans can be prepared by the farmer, although the farmer may benefit from getting assistance by those trained and experienced in developing plans. Manure Management plans do not have to be submitted for approval but must be kept on the farm and available upon request.

Farms defined as Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) or as Concentrated Animal Operations (CAOs) are required to develop more detailed written plans, called Nutrient Management Plans. These plans must be developed by a Certified Nutrient Management Specialist and submitted to the conservation district for review and approval as required by Pennsylvania's Nutrient Management Act (Act 38, 2005) Program.

If your operation involves a large quantity of animals, it could be a CAFO.  Follow this link
"Is My Operation a CAFO" to see if it meets the requirements.

Is your farm a CAO? Complete Agronomy Fact Sheet 54 to find out.

Which plan is right for your operation? *Click Here to find out*

Download the Manure Management Plan Guidance Manual and develop your Manure Management plan.  The manual includes a sample plan for you to follow, manure application rate tables, record keeping forms and the actual workbook you will fill out to create your plan.  If all you need are the empty forms, download the Manure Management Plan Workbook saving paper and ink. 

Visit the Pennsylvania Nutrient Management Program website for a comprehensive source of information about Pennsylvania's Nutrient Management Act (Act 38, 2005) Program, and associated technical guidance and educational information. It also provides limited information concerning relatedprograms.                                                                                                                      

Manure spreader calibration is an essential part of every manure/nutrient management plan which involves land application.  Agronomy Facts 68 Manure Spreader Calibration gives descriptons of the two most common methods of calibrating spreader for all types of manure.

Contact the Conservation District at (717) 921-8100 and talk with an Ag Specialist for further assistance in developing your own plan or finding a certified plan writer.