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The balance equation is used to predict a nitrogen deficit or excess produced by the dairy facility: <br /> 181,366 lbs. N produced - 184,330 lbs of needed by crops= -2964 lbs. N deficit. <br /> IV. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS <br /> The data derived above is not as simplistic as presented. The data only gives a rough estimate of <br /> what is occurring at the subject facility. As stated, there are many factors involved in adequately <br /> assessing and correlating crop needs and uptake with available nitrogen. What the balance <br /> equation does tell us is that the amount of nitrogen produced by the dairy operation is <br /> approximately equal to the nitrogen needed for optimum crop growth. When such large numbers <br /> are formulated for nitrogen produced vs. nitrogen needed, the margin of error can be t 10%-20%. <br /> Consequently, it is recommended that careful monitoring and analysis be performed and <br /> documented on the 1.) the wastes applied, 2.) the cropland soil and 3.) tissue samples of the crops <br /> to check for N excess. <br /> In our opinion, the cropland area is the primary area of concern with respect to nitrate/nitrogen <br /> loading. The calculated nitrogen contribution from on-site sewage disposal systems is <br /> comparatively insignificant due to the density factor. The corrals and wastewater ponds are <br /> adequately protected from factors listed, namely the high clay content soil. The mechanical <br /> separator area may be considered a "point-source", although with proper management techniques, <br /> primarily water management, there should be a mitigation of nitrate formation. <br /> This report serves to indicate the environmental impact to the soil and underlying <br /> groundwater with respect to nitrate/nitrogen loading. This report also serves to illustrate <br /> the operation of the dairy from an environmental impact standpoint. Although the report <br /> does not specifically address other environmental issues such as odor, truck traffic and <br /> factors associated with the farming operation of the dairy, it is our opinion the dairy is <br /> operated under the best management practices to mitigate environmental concerns. It <br /> must be recognized the dairy operates in a predominately agricultural region where related <br /> ag operations such as odors, dust, pesticide/fertilizer applications and truck traffic are <br /> going to occur. <br /> 9 <br />