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MINNESOTAEXTENSIONSERVICE � � • ' ' <br /> UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA <br /> DAKOTA COUIv'TY <br /> 4100 220th Street West <br /> Farmington MN 55024-9539 <br /> (612)891-7700 <br /> TDD: (612)891-7749 <br /> FAX: (612)463-8002 <br /> E-mail: dakotaC�3mes.umn.edu <br /> June 23, 1997 <br /> TO: Jim Murphy and Sandra Smith <br /> FR: Jeremy Geske, Extension Educator, specializing in Livestock Systems <br /> RE: My observations from the June 19 farm visit <br /> CC: Tom Wegner <br /> The message I received was that there was some concern about runoff from a horse lot entering a <br /> wetland. 7im and Sandra wanted an expert opinion on pollution potential, and if a problem did <br /> exist, advice on how to prevent it. We set up a farm visit, so I could see the situation first hand. <br /> My initial reaction was A) there are only two horses and B) the lot was not devoid of vegetation. <br /> It is my understanding then that this farm would not be considered a feedlot and a permit would <br /> not be required. In addition, the amount of manure from two horses is relatively minimaL <br /> There is a hill above the East side of the]ot. However, there is tl�ick vegetation on the hill and <br /> Jim blades a ri8ge of dirt around the fence; both of which should reduce the amount of runoff <br /> crossing the lot. For the most part, it appears that only rain (or snow) falling directly on the lot <br /> would be a concern. The lot itself is very small and it appears that only about 2/3 of it drains <br /> towards the wetland. Between the lot and the wetland is a narrow strip of grass and a gravel <br /> road. <br /> Considering the small size of the operation and the way it is managed, my opinion is that the <br /> impact on the wetland from runof�through this lot is extremely minor. <br /> In addition, the horses appeared to be in very good condition, and well taken care of. Jim and <br /> Sandra�ave me the impression that they willing to follow any steps necessary to ensure they are <br /> not polluting and that their horses are mana�ed properly. Their veterinarian could probably attest <br /> to this. <br /> If you would like more opinions, I would recommend inviting a representative from the Soil and <br /> Water Conservation District and/or Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to inspect the sight. <br /> I am also sending Jim and Sandra some information on composting horse manure. <br /> UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,AND MINNESOTA COUNTIES COOPERATING <br />