This subject really stinks but it needs to be addressed. Many aspects of manure management are causing more concern now than ever before because of environmental issues. This is not the only concern, though. It became painfully evident just a few weeks ago right here in New York State that by-products of manure can be lethal.

What does the average herdsperson or farm manager need to know about manure management so he or she does not become a fatality statistic? What we call "manure gas" is actually several gasses produced by the decomposition of manure. These toxic gasses include methane, carbon dioxide, ammonia, hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen disulfide. Most of these gasses are heavier than air so they will accumulate in low areas such as a manure pit. Methane, on the other hand, is lighter than air, so it will accumulate in the top of a storage area if it is enclosed. Gas levels are usually higher when the stored manure is being agitated, ventilation systems are not working, and during hot, humid weather.

Because manure gasses are invisible and inconsistent, you can’t tell by looking or by past experience if a pit is safe to enter. Even a nearly empty manure pit can contain toxic fumes, or the oxygen may be displaced so there is not enough to support life. So what if you have to enter the manure pit? If you have not had specific training in confined space entry, don’t go in—it could be the last thing you ever do! Call the experts that have self-contained oxygen supplying breathing apparatuses and safety lines and harnesses. Even if a family member falls in a manure pit, resist the urge to go in after them. Call for help. A few years ago in Michigan five family members died, one by one, as they attempted to rescue the one that went in before them. These deaths could have been avoided.

For safe manure management observe the following precautions:

• Always post warning signs around manure storage areas.
• Fence lagoons to keep children out. (Even though the surface may look solid, a child can fall through.)
• Do not allow people or animals in buildings above manure pits while agitating.
• Provide maximum ventilation when agitating or pumping manure from a pit.
• Never enter a pit unless you have specialized training, equipment and the assistance of another person.
• Do not completely fill the pit. Leave space above the manure for gasses to accumulate.
• Make sure repairs and maintenance can be done on your system without going into the pit.
• Do not try to rescue a person who has been overcome by manure gas—immediately call for help giving specific information about the nature of the hazards.