Does manure or odor present a public health risk?
A. No. Elements and nutrients in manure do not present a public health risk because all compounds occur naturally and none are released to the environment at concentrations detrimental to air or water quality. The human nose is sensitive enough to detect some of these compounds at parts-per-billion levels, which are well below the concentrations that produce human health effects. While odors from pork operations may occasionally be distracting or irritating, they do not pose a health risk. Responsible pork producers employ various methods to minimize the effects of odor on the surrounding community. For example, producers monitor climate and wind speed conditions before manure fertilizer applications. They ensure liquids drawn from lagoons have received adequate treatment to minimize odors before land application. Most important, they understand being a good neighbor is essential to the continued success of their business. As a result, responsible producers plan ahead to avoid applying
