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I <br />' IV. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS <br /> The data derived above is not as simplistic as presented, it only gives a rough estimate of wh7is ]] <br /> occurring at the subject facility. As stated, there are many factors involved in adequately <br /> Iassessing 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 <br /> numbers are formulated for nitrogen produced vs. nitrogen needed, the margin of error can be <br /> f 10% to 25%. Consequently, it is recommended that careful monitoring and analysis be done <br /> on the solid and liquid wastes applied, the cropland soil and tissue samples of the crops to check <br /> for N excess. <br /> In our opinion, the cropland 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 /> insignificant due to the density factor. Corrals and wastewateronds are adequately P q y protected <br /> by the factors listed, namely the high clay content soil._ The mechanical separator area may be <br /> considered a "point-source," although with proper management techniques, primarily water <br /> management, there should be a mitigation of nitrate formation. <br /> This report serves to indicate the environmental impact to the soil and underlying groundwater at <br /> the subject facility regarding nitrate/nitrogen loading. The report also serves to illustrate the <br /> operation of the dairy from an environmental impact standpoint. Although we have not <br /> specifically addressed other environmental issues such as odor, truck traffic and factors <br /> associated with the farming operation of the dairy, it is our opinion the dairy is operated under <br /> the best management practices to mitigate environmental concerns. It must be recognized the <br /> dairy operates in a predominately agricultural region where related ag operations such as odors, <br /> dust, pesticide/fertilizer applications and truck traffic are going to occur. <br /> 9 <br />