Best Management Practices for

Reducing Mud

Mud is not a "given" every winter if small farms are managed to prevent the mud problems. It is more than just a mess or a nuisance. Livestock standing or walking through mud can be exposed to foot diseases and these moist areas can be a breeding ground for bacteria, flies, and other insects. Following a practical management program will minimize the mud on your acreage.

Begin by installing gutters and downspouts on barns and shelters. A 1" rainstorm produces 90 gallons of water running off a 12' x 12' roof. By locating downspouts in a way that keeps clean runoff from roofs diverted away from animal confinement areas to streams or ditches, manure and wastes are not carried into clean waterways. Gutters and downspouts greatly reduce the mud problem around barns and shelters.

• Drain tiles, or simple ditches help drain muddy areas once the gutters and downspouts are installed. Muddy areas should not be drained directly into streams, ponds, or clean water ditches. Muddy water can be drained into a vegetative filter, or a wastewater pond. Existing ponds should be kept clean.
  
• Livestock should be removed from pastures, and confined to a holding area, paddock or corral (sacrifice pasture) during wet winter months. Careful consideration should be given to the location of these livestock holding areas. Choose a well-drained area away from existing streams, ponds, or other clean water. Provide drainage tiles or ditches to maintain maximum drainage in the holding area. Gravel, hog fuel, wood chips, and sand can be used to keep these areas dry.
  
• Buildings and shelters should be located in high, well-drained areas. Avoid placing buildings close to streams, ponds, and other clean water. Check with Whatcom County Planning & Development Services for setback requirements.
  

Clean water, less mud, and drier, healthier livestock are the result of following these simple management practices.

For more information on Best Management Practices for livestock operations and assistance with farm resource conservation planning, contact us at the Whatcom Conservation District.