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About the Forecast

The forecast used for the Manure Spreading Advisory (MSA) comes from model precipitation prediction data by NOAA. This data is updated at least once daily. 

Click HERE to read more about how NOAA derives and assesses precipitation data.

NOAA disclaimer on use of forecast data.

Click here for more weather links and information.

This page was last modified on 12/07/12 - 16:15

MSA Text Alert Sign Up

To quickly sign up, text "EZManure" to 797979.

Or, enter your phone number to join the Whatcom Manure Spreading Advisory (MSA) and receive occasional texts for significant weather and manure spreading conditions. You can opt out at any time.


Msg&data rates may apply. To unsubscribe, text STOP to 797979 . Your privacy is always protected and your information will not be shared. Powered by Ez Texting

The MSA Forecast

Current Manure Setback Distance (for all forms of manure):

February
80 ft.

January 2019 - No application is allowed on saturated, snow covered, or frozen ground. Be cautious when starting your manure application season and do not apply ahead of rain events. Setbacks are 80 feet from waterways.  Fill out an ARM Worksheet prior to application (link on MSA map) and/or if rain is in the forecast or if you might have wet, saturated field conditions.

Irrigation water application can act just like a rain event. For help with irrigation, check out the Irrigation Scheduler tool from WSU: http://weather.wsu.edu/is/.

To prevent the risk of a runoff or leaching event, and maximize application timing, follow an Application Risk Management (ARM) plan. If you do not have an ARM plan, contact WCD today to request a field evaluation. 

Keep an eye on the weather forecast for both rain events and flooding (https://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/rfc/).

Caution needs to be taken when applying manure during high risk times. Heavy precipitation can move applied nutrients into the groundwater or off of your field and into nearby swales, ditches, and/or waterways. If this happens, you can be put under the CAFO permit.

  • Notes on using the MSA
  • Need to spread on a high-risk day?

Additional Resources

  • Field Assessment Steps
  • Application Parameters
  • Soil Moisture Determination
  • Water Table Depth Determination
  • Forage Density Determination
  • Area Weather Summary
  • Soil Temperature

Help and Co

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