Gippsland farmers are being reminded by EPA Victoria of their environmental
responsibilities for managing dairy effluent ponds ahead of winter.
EPA in the last few months has identified some problems with effluent
management in the region and issued notices to help farmers address issues so
they are compliant.
EPA Gippsland regional manager Dieter Melzer said with the dairy season ramping
up over the cooler months and more wet weather, effluent management was even
more important.
“Farmers need to ensure their ponds have enough capacity in them to store what
will accumulate over winter,” said Mr Melzer.
“Poorly managed effluent ponds can overflow, causing surface and ground water
pollution. While increased nutrients in waterways from effluent can harm plants
and animals, create odour and have possible health impacts for waterway users
downstream.”
Mr Melzer said EPA would soon be undertaking inspections around Poowong and
Korumburra in Gippsland to check that this potential environmental risk is
being managed and to provide guidance to those who may require it.
Some of the preventative measures include: de-sludging ponds; removing
vegetation and weeds on and around ponds, which can reduce capacity; and
irrigating when the weather permits while ensuring there is no run off.
The Victorian Dairy Effluent Guidelines released by Dairy Gains in 2008 provide
a clear guide on how to manage effluent.
For a copy of the guidelines visit www.dairyingfortomorrow.com.au