Manure Management Planning has been required in the state of Pennsylvania since 1977. In October of 2011, the PA Department of Environmental Protection released new Manure Management Requirements. Every farm in Pennsylvania that land applies manure, whether they generate the manure or import it from another operation, is required to have a written Manure Management Plan. This includes livestock and poultry operations, small hobby farms (sheep, goats, llamas, etc.), and horse owners.
For farms not defined as Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) or Concentrated Animal Operations (CAOs), Manure Management Plans can be prepared by the farmer. Manure Management Plans do not have to be submitted for approval but must be kept on the farm and made available upon request to DEP or the local county conservation district.
Pennsylvania Chapter 91.36 addresses pollution control and prevention at agricultural operations. Chapter 91.36 refers to the DEP Manure Management Manual (MMM) as containing standards for development of a Manure Management Plan. The MMM is made available by DEP to help guide farmers develop their own plan. The Potter County Conservation District is also available to help farmers develop the plan. Click here to access the Manure Management Manual.