Material From Original Gov't Discussion Paper
[ Intro to odor as an environmental concern from original discussion papersource#1,"Common Concerns" section p.4 ]Sensitivity to odour differs greatly from one individual to another. High concentrations of very strong odours can result in nasal irritations, trigger symptoms in individuals with breathing afflictions and asthma, or add to the stress a person may be feeling.
The three main sources of odours on livestock operations are the livestock housing or containment area, the manure storage site or structure, and the application of manure to land. The intensity of odour depends on a wide variety of factors, such as the number of animals, the manure management system and the type of animals being raised.
Outdoor facilities are used to raise Manitoba livestock such as cattle and elk, while other animals, such as poultry and swine, are raised indoors. Odours from livestock housing are generally of low intensity but may be present during most of the year. While all types of manure storages release some odours, liquid manure storage structures tend to release the greatest amount of odour. Application of livestock manure to land generally produces the most odours from livestock operations.
The release of strong odours during manure application can be reduced by tilling the land soon after application or by injecting liquid manure directly into cropland. Rows of trees around manure storage structures help diffuse odours higher up in the air, essentially diluting them to less-noticeable levels. However, planting shelterbelts is a long-term solution that takes time to establish. The keys to reducing odour complaints are proper siting of a new livestock operation and good manure management.
The Farm Practices Protection Board, mandated under the Farm Practices Protection Act, has been established to consider nuisance complaints against agricultural operations from persons directly affected by the disturbance. The board conducts an investigation to determine whether an operation is following standard farming practices as prescribed in the Farm Practices Guidelines for livestock producers in Manitoba. An order to cease or modify practices may be issued against operators who do not follow standard practices. (For further detail, see "Manitoba Regulations and Guidelines.")
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Material From "Common Ground" Government Report
Other Material and References