Dog kennel - outside runs

[ptmoss]

I'm getting involved with a new kennel operation for 80 dogs and, as concerns are being raised by the city zoning board about groundwater/well contamination from dog urine, am gathering info on this subject.

Solid waste in the yard will be picked up throughout the day and will be removed periodically by a waste disposal firm. The kennel itself will be on a septic system.

It doesn't help that the two zoning board members who are complaining also live on the same road...

The kennel will be on 50 acres with setbacks of 100+ feet to the nearest property line, and even further setbacks in the downgradient direction.

Can anyone point me towards info on potential for nitrate or other contamination from kennel runs? Farm yards have similar issues and I've been reviewing info on them but I haven't come up with anything specific to dog kennels.

Many thanks, Pete

 

[bimr]

Waste disposal must be in accordance with the requirements of the local government authority. You can probably find a source for this information if you contact the veterinary department at the local university. Agriculture departments sometimes have this information as well.

Animal establishment sites must be sewered or on a septic system, or have some other adequate method of disposing of feces. If you have a properly designed and sized septic system, you should not have a problem with nitrates.

Daily cleaning of facilities will probably be a hose out. You have to design the septic system for the capacity of all of the drains in the facility. You are going to have to hire a Professional Engineer with wastewater experience to design this facility.

 

[KRSServices]

I realize that my example here is not really the same issue, however, the same principals may be of some use in your problem.

Consider the methodology utilized in the large feedlots (cattle, hogs) here in Alberta where the regulations prohibit the migration of effluent from the lots onto surrounding properties. The Provincial regulations are very specific and could be of some use to you.

KRS Services

http://www.krs-services.com

 

[ptmoss]

KRS, are those regulations on the web?

I'll be incorporating some common sense BMPs into the site drainage, i.e. diverting drainage around the run area and treating run-off from the runs.

 

[KRSServices]

All the regulations can be viewed or procured over the web. Go to

http://www.gov.ab.ca

There are several departments that review feedlots, from the EUB to Agriculture to Environment. They will all be able to assist you. If you are running into brick walls, I can give you names of individuals who can provide specific information. I will do this through direct email only, for obvious reasons.

Try the website first. Let me know how it works for you.

KRS Services

http://www.krs-services.com