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rCBynalyz7thetwoarameters of liquid nutrients applied and cropland soils, it can best be mineof nutrient (liquid manure blend, straight irrigation water or possibly inorganic fertilizer) to apply to a particular field. The procedures for determining crop nutritional needs, particularly nitrogen, without overloading the cropland can be a complex process. In an effort to simplify the information required to make best management decisions for optimum crop growth and nutrient utilization, we recommend the Manure Analysis Reference Guide, published by A & L Agricultural Laboratories. It provides one of the best sources of information to determine utilization of crop nutrients from confined animal facilities. The suitable rate of liquid manure applications is determined by the ability of the soil and crop combination to immobilize and utilize the nutrients in the applied liquid, which is detailed on the Worksheets found in this Guide. Additionally, the Estimated Nitrogen Release (ENR) must be taken into consideration when determining nutrient application quantities. This quantifies potential nitrogen release from previous crop residues. Caution must be used when irrigating the cropland. Nutrient water must be applied carefully to avoid runoff. The infiltration and permeability of all nutrient application acreage is comparatively slow and runoff can occur readily since the cropland will be flood irrigated. Several improvements are proposed for the Rocha Dairy to prevent nutrient water runoff and protect the surface waters of Tom Paine Slough and groundwater. Of the improvements proposed, the two irrigation water return systems offers the greatest protection against runoff into the Tom Paine Slough, or percolating down to the underlying groundwater. Irrigation water distribution must be visually monitored so that it is shut off at the appropriate time. ` Biomat formation within the leachline trenches for the septic systems on parcel 2 and 3 will. eventually impede percolation to a probable equilibrium rate of 0.5 gals/sq ft/day. It is important to " recognize that all septic systems have lifespans due to this biomat formation. It is imperative that a 50%replacement area be set-aside for eventual repair. This replacement area may be used while the primary leachfield area"rests and rehabilitates." Effluent management can then be converted back to the primary field. This cycle can continue indefinitely. This report serves to assess the environmental impact to the soil and underlying groundwater with respect to nitrate-nitrogen loading. It is our opinion that due to the 1.) Improvements that are proposed to be made to the nutrient water distribution, 2.) The on-site clayey/silty surface soils, 3.) The nitrogen mass balance demonstrating nitrogen deficiency, and 4.) Greater awareness of agronomic nitrogen balances, will all contribute to mitigation of nitrate impact. Although this report does not address other environmental issues such as odor, truck traffic or other factors associated with the farming aspect of the dairy, it is our opinion the dairy is operated under best management practices to mitigate environmental concerns. It must be recognized the dairy F operates in a predominately agricultural region where related agricultural operations such as odors, dust, flies, pesticide/nutrient applications and truck traffic are going to occur. 13 Chesney Consufting