The Farmstead and Cattle Feedlot #2
This farmstead has a large feedlot with a manure collection system. This system prevents the manure from running off and polluting the nearby wetland. It also prevents the manure from infiltrating the soil and polluting the groundwater supply. In our county, most people’s drinking water comes from groundwater, so it is important to keep it clean!
The tractor and tank in the field is injecting liquid manure from the manure collection system into the field, this prevents manure from running off the field and into the water. This is called nutrient management.
A heavy use area has been installed in the feedlot where livestock gather to feed. This is a hard, stable surface that protects areas heavily impacted by livestock and reduces manure runoff. It prevents soil erosion and improves livestock management and health.
The small white building in the farmyard is where farm chemicals are stored and mixed. Any spills during storage or mixing are collected in an underground tank which prevents contamination of the well water nearby. The well house is the tiny white building beside the chemical handling building and is the source of water for the farm. This chemical handling building helps to protect drinking water on the farm.
Learn more about nutrient management from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
Learn more about heavy use protection areas from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
Restored Wetland
The wetland area, which was farmed in the past, has been restored by plugging the drainage tile under it. Wetlands are natural filters for water pollutants and sediment from soil erosion. Wetlands also act like sponges and soak up excess water, preventing flooding.
Wetlands are important habitats that provide many benefits to people and wildlife. Protecting existing wetlands and wetland restoration improves water quality.
Did you know that Indiana has lost around 85% of its wetlands in the last 100 years? Each year one (1) acre of wetland provides $248 worth of water purification services, $2270 worth of water storage services, and $1155 worth of erosion prevention services. Wow!
You can help to protect wetlands by learning more about them and sharing with others why wetlands are important. Visit the Beyer Boardwalk (Warsaw) or Pisgah Marsh Boardwalk (North Webster) to explore a wetland and learn more!
Learn more about wetland restoration from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).