Lawmaker Looks To Help Liquid Manure Flow In Wisconsin

A Wisconsin lawmaker has introduced legislation to allow farmers to lay pipelines for liquid manure along or under highways. Proponents say this new way of moving the fertilizer could be better for the state’s aging transportation system.

Rep. Jim Edming said he is hoping to clarify the permit process for farmers to install liquid manure pipelines along highway right of ways.

Many farmers are beginning to use pipeline systems, and the proposed legislation would clarify that local governments have the authority to issue permits for producers who want to install these systems along public roads.

Rob Richard from the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation said pipelines are a smart alternative to the heavy manure trucks that often damage state and county roads.

“Roads are aging, the roads are softening and this is a good way to try to get those trucks and that extra weight off the road and move the manure in a way that won’t affect them,” he said.

Producers need to use highway right of ways and culverts to avoid crossing private property, Richard said.