Features Business/Policy Environment Protection Protection Regulations State United States
Winter application of manure regulated in DE

November 30, 2012, Dover, DE – Delaware farmers, and other nutrient handlers are being reminded they should not apply nutrients to the ground during the winter months, according to the Delaware Department of Agriculture.

State regulations adopted by the Delaware Nutrient Management Commission in 2007 prohibit certified nutrient handlers from applying commercial and manure-based fertilizer from Dec. 7 to Feb. 15, the time of year most vulnerable for nutrient runoff. Application may also not occur on snow-covered or frozen ground, or on impervious surfaces such as sidewalks, roads or other paved areas.

“Most rain runoff occurs in the winter and spring, so this is the prime season,” said Nutrient Management Program administrator Larry Towle. “Protecting fertilizer from runoff during the winter is imperative.”

Failure to comply with the winter application regulations may result in a compliance and enforcement hearing before the commission.