Dairy Farms

According to recent figures, there are currently just under 11,000 dairy producers in the UK, with around 1.85 million dairy cows in the dairy herd. Pollution from dairy farms is carefully monitored as there are many ways that pollution can affect both livestock and humans. Contamination can occur via:

• Water Use
• Effluent Production
• Spillages
• Feed Delivery and Storage
• Dairy and Beef Cattle Housing
• Milking Parlours
• Storage of Slurry and Manure
• Spreading of Effluent and Solid Manure
• Disposal of Animal Carcasses
• Pesticides, Biocides and Veterinary Medicines
• Agricultural Machinery and Vehicles
• Fuel Use
• General and Agricultural Waste

Water Pollution n Dairy Farms

There are many products that can affect the water quality on a dairy farm: livestock manures and sewage sludge are classed as organic manures and can present a serious hazard if they are exposed to the water supply. Farm essentials such as fuel oil, sheep dip, pesticides and fertilisers will also contaminate water if they are not properly stored and monitored.

Odours Arising from Dairy Farms

Ammonia and gases from organic manures and waste on dairy farms can cause human health problems. Agriculture produces more than 85 per cent of ammonia emissions in the United Kingdom, and is responsible for around one third of methane emissions.

Solutions to Dairy Farm Pollution

Dairy farming has the potential to produce various forms of pollution if not carefully monitored and regularly assessed. The Environmental Testing Company has the capacity and capability to provide testing for all pollutants that may be present in agricultural practice, and will suggest solutions to ensure best practice on farms.