Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 May 2017
Economic and environmental analyses of manure handling systems have implications for programs to regulate agricultural nonpoint sources of water pollution and programs to subsidize manure handling practices. Previous economic analyses in the literature are discussed. Manure systems are evaluated in a consistent framework to determine construction and operating costs. The effect of soil type on nutrient conservation is examined for two hypothetical farms. Dissolved phosphorous runoff is estimated for the farms varying storage capacity and soil type. Costs of phosphorus reduction by handling system, housing type and soil type are examined. Conclusions for cost-sharing policy are drawn.