NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION BOARD

Transcription

1 Guide 1A NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION BOARD Guide 1A: How To Complete an NRCB Application Approvals Registrations Authorizations Confined Feeding Operations, Manure Collection Areas and Manure Storage Facilities (November 2005)

2 Table of Contents Overview...1 How To Complete Part 1: General Information and Disclosure...3 Section A: Contact Information...3 Section B: Location of Proposed Development...3 Section C: Application Type...3 Section D: Application Disclosure...5 How To Complete Part 2: Technical Requirements...6 Section A: Applicant Disclosure...6 Section B: General Information Requirements...6 Section C: Minimum Distance Separation (MDS)...8 Section D: Water Act Requirements...9 Section E: Public Land Act Requirements...13 Section F: Public Highways Development Act Requirements...13 Section G: Water and Soil Information...14 Section H: Manure Collection Areas...16 Section I: Storage Facilities for Solid Manure, Composting Materias and Compost...18 Section J: Liquid Manure Storage collection area Under Barn Pits...20 Section K: Liquid Manure Storage Earthen Manure Storage...21 Section L: Liquid Manure Storage Concrete Tank, Steel Tank, Synthetic Liner or Alternative Liner System...24 Section M: Runoff Control Catch Basins...26 Section N: Manure Processing...28 Section O: Land Base For Manure and Compost Application...28 Appendix 1: NRCB Regional Offices Appendix 2: Sample Area and Site Plans Appendix 3: Glossary Guide 1A: How To Complete an NRCB Application (November 2005) - i -

3 Overview This guide provides step-by-step instructions to assist applicants with completing and submitting the two-part application for confined feeding operations (CFOs), manure collection areas and manure storage facilities. Use this guide to help you complete Part 1: Application Disclosure and Part 2: Technical Information, when applying to the NRCB for a permit. Included in the two-part application, which is submitted to the NRCB, are forms for approvals, authorizations or permits under the Water Act, the Public Lands Act and/or the Public Highways Development Act that may be required as part of a complete application. Some common application scenarios are provided in Table 1. Consult this table to determine your application type and the forms you need to complete and submit to the NRCB for your proposed development. There are two types of NRCB applications: Application for Approval, Registration or Authorization If you are applying for construction, expansion, renovation or modification of a CFO, manure collection area or manure storage facility, you will need to complete and submit both parts of the two-part application (Part 1: General Information and Disclosure and Part 2: Technical Requirements). This guide describes Parts 1 and 2 in detail. Registrations and Approvals are issued based on number of animals or a change in animal category/type at the site. Operators can change livestock types within a livestock category with notification to the NRCB, provided that annual manure production is not increased. They cannot switch categories without prior approval from the NRCB. Authorizations are issued for manure storage facilities and manure collection areas. Application for Amendment If you are seeking to vary or change an existing NRCB permit, municipal development permit or health authority permit, you need to submit an Application for Amendment. Permits previously issued by a municipality or health authority will be considered an Approval, Registration or Authorization under the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA), and are subject to enforcement by the NRCB. Step-by-step instructions for completing and submitting an Application for Amendment are found in Guide 1B: How to Complete an NRCB Application for Amendment. Important Considerations When Applying Supporting documentation. To comply with technical information requirements you may be required to submit supporting documentation such as area plans, site plans, engineering evaluations and other reports. Applicants are responsible for undertaking any investigations required to provide the necessary information. Processing delays. Applications submitted with incomplete information will not be processed by the NRCB and may result in a significant delay in the application process or a denial of the application. Existing non-compliance issues may also delay application processing. Constructing without a permit. Construction or expansion of a CFO, or construction, expansion or modification of a manure storage facility, without a permit where a permit is required is an offence under AOPA and is subject to enforcement action, including prosecution and court fines. Copying and distribution. Applicants are responsible for providing copies of the application to affected parties, as directed by the NRCB. On the applicant s behalf, the NRCB may distribute copies of the application to the affected parties. The NRCB may also make copies of the application on request, but the applicant will be charged for copying costs. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 1

4 Submitting your application. Completed application forms and supporting documentation are accepted via mail, courier, hand delivery or fax at the NRCB regional office where the proposed development will be located. Questions? Approval Officers at any of the NRCB s four regional offices are available to answer applicants questions about the application process. (See Appendix 1: NRCB Regional Offices). Table 1 Common Application Scenarios* Development/Change Proposed Permit Required Action Required New CFO Approval or Registration Expanded CFO Approval or Registration Change animal type within a category + increase in manure production Change animal category Improvement of existing manure storage facility Manure storage facility >=500 T and/or used for more than 7 months/year New manure storage facility for existing CFO Construct ancillary structure Change an existing condition or permit Change animal type within a category + no increase in manure production Manure storage facility <500 T and/or used for less than 7 months/year *This table is not inclusive of all application scenarios. Approval or Registration Approval or Registration Authorization Authorization Authorization Amendment Amendment None None Complete and submit Parts (Guide 1A) Complete and submit Parts (Guide 1A) Complete and submit Application for Amendment (Guide 1B) Notify NRCB None Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 2

5 How To Complete Part 1: General Information and Disclosure Submission of Part 1 provides notification to the NRCB of the applicant s intent to apply for an approval, registration or authorization under AOPA. Part 1 also sets the date for determining the minimum distance separation (MDS) for the proposed development. Parts 1 and 2 may be submitted simultaneously, or Part 2 may be submitted within a maximum of six months from the submission date of Part 1 of your application in order to preserve the MDS that has been set for your development proposal. This timeframe may be adjusted by an Approval Officer upon receiving a detailed, written request. Failure to meet this timeline could result in denial of the application by the NRCB. If any of the information disclosed in Part 1 of your application has changed between the time you submit Parts 1 and 2, you must indicate this in section B1 of the Part 2 application and submit a revised Part 1 to the NRCB. The MDS may be reset at this date of resubmission. You must complete all sections of Part 1 of the application form. SECTION A: CONTACT INFORMATION Fill in all information fields in this section. This is the contact details for your application. This information is referenced by the NRCB, other agencies and potentially directly affected parties. The applicant is legally responsible for the accuracy and completeness of their application and all supporting documentation. SECTION B: LOCATION OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT B1 Legal Land Description (LLD) Enter the legal land description where the proposed development is to be located (excluding manure spreading lands). B2 Municipal Development Plan Indicate whether or not your proposed development is consistent with the municipal development plan and zoning in the development area. If you check No, you must give details as to why your proposed development is not consistent in the Details field provided. B3 Registered Landowner Indicate whether or not you are the registered landowner for the proposed development location. If you check No, you must attach a letter of consent signed by all registered landowners. B4 Existing Permit Indicate whether or not you have an existing permit for the proposed development. If you check Yes, you must attach a copy of the permit and enter the Permit Number in the field provided. SECTION C: APPLICATION TYPE C1 Proposed Activity Check all boxes that describe your proposed development. C2 Livestock Numbers List the livestock numbers at maximum capacity for the proposed development. Use Table 2 to assist you with category/type designation. If your proposed development is for a category/type not listed in Table 2, contact an NRCB Approval Officer for assistance. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 3

6 C2 Livestock Numbers (cont.) Complete the table as follows: Category/type Enter the animal category and type in this column. Existing Number Identify the number of animals (if any) that you currently have on site. Additional (new) Enter the number of new animals you want to add to your operation (whether proposing a new or expanding an existing CFO). Total (column 2 + column 3) Add together the number of existing and new animals for each category/type (add columns 2 and 3) and enter the total number of animals being proposed for your development or operation. NRCB permits are issued based on the total animal number for all category/type(s). Animal Unit Factor Use the last column in Table 2 to determine the animal unit factor for your livestock category/type. Enter this Animal Unit Factor in Column 5. Animal units (column 4 5) Calculate the animal units by dividing the number of Total animals by the Animal Unit Factor. Add together all of the animal units identified in column 6 and enter total at the bottom of the column. C3 Manure Production Use Table 3 and Table 4 to determine the total annual manure production for your proposed development, based on the numbers you entered in C2. If your cat./type is not listed, contact an Approval Officer for assistance. Then, enter the total annual manure production in this field, including volume and units. Table 2 Number of Animals for Approvals and Registrations* and Animal Unit Factors Category Type Animal Numbers.Registration Beef Animal Numbers Approval Animal Unit Factor Beef cows/finishers (900+ lbs) Beef feeders (<900 lbs) Dairy Milking cows (including replacements & dries) Swine Farrow to finish Farrow to wean Feeders Weaners Poultry Layers (incl. associated pullets) Pullets/broilers Turkeys Toms Ducks Geese Horses PMU Feeders Sheep Ewes/rams Goats Meat/milk Bison Cervid Elk Deer Wild Boar *Source: Schedule 2, Part 2 Matters Regulation AR 257/2001, AOPA. Source: Schedule 1, Part 2 Matters Regulation AR 257/2001, AOPA. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 4

7 Table 3 Liquid Manure Production Volumes* Category Type Daily Monthly Yearly gal. l. cu.ft. gal. l. cu.ft. gal. l. cu.ft. Swine Farrow to finish Farrow to wean Feeder Weaner Dairies Free stall (dries & milking) Poultry Layers (per 100) *Source: Table 6, Standards and Administration Regulation AR 267/2001, AOPA. Includes milking parlour waste of 30 l. per milking cow (not replacements). Table 4 Solid Manure Production Volumes* Beef Swine Category Poultry (per 100) Turkeys (per 100) Type Daily Monthly Yearly lbs kgs cu.ft. lbs. kgs cu.ft. tons tonnes cu.ft. Cows/Finishers Feeders Farrow to finish Farrow to wean Feeders Weaners Pullets/Broilers Toms Ducks (per 100) Geese (per 100) Horses PMU Feeders Sheep Ewes/Rams Goats Meat/milk Bison Cervid Elk Deer Wild Boar *Source:Table 5, Schedule 3, Standards and Administration Regulation AR 267/2001, AOPA. SECTION D: APPLICATION DISCLOSURE You (or an authorized agent) must read and sign the disclosure section. If you wish any portion(s) of your application to remain confidential, you must make a formal, written request to the NRCB before making application stating the reason(s) why this information should remain confidential. The NRCB Approval Officer will notify the applicant or agent of a decision regarding confidentiality. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 5

8 How To Complete Part 2: Technical Requirements Part 2 of the application gathers technical information about your proposed development. Review this guide together with the Part 2 forms, to determine which sections apply and must be completed for your proposed development. NRCB Approval Officers are available for consultation to help applicants understand what is required (Appendix 1). In order to complete Part 2, you must be able to provide calculations and measurements as required. In some cases you may be required to hire a third party consultant or professional, at your expense, to evaluate and report technical information. Once all anticipated information requirements are met, the Approval Officer will accept the application and deem the application complete. If information requirements are not met, the application and supporting documentation are returned to the applicant. Failure to meet information requirements or submitting additional technical information after the application is deemed complete will result in a delay in processing your application. Unless otherwise specified, complete all sections of Part 2. SECTION A: APPLICANT DISCLOSURE This information is collected under the authority of the Agricultural Operation Practices Act, is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, and shall be deemed public unless the NRCB grants a written request that certain sections remain private. This section states key points about the nature of your NRCB application. Signing the statement indicates that you understand these points, and that the technical information provided in Part 2 and all supporting documentation are true. You (or your authorized agent) must read, sign and date the Applicant Disclosure. SECTION B: GENERAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS B1 Part 1 General Information & Disclosure a. Check Yes if you previously submitted Part 1 to the NRCB. If you check No you must complete and submit Part 1 together with Part 2 and supporting documentation. b. If you previously submitted Part 1, indicate whether or not any information has changed since the date of your submission. If you check Yes you must complete and submit a revised Part 1, together with Part 2 and supporting documentation. B2 Area and Site Plans Both an area plan and a site plan are required as part of the supporting documentation for your application. An application submitted without area and site plans will not be processed. a. Check Yes to indicate you have attached an area plan to your application. b. Check Yes to indicate you have attached a site plan to your application. Area Plan Requirements (see Appendix 2 for a sample area plan) Your area plan must be on a minimum 8.5 x 11 inch paper, be drawn to scale and show dimensions. You may submit a clearly marked county/municipal district map or create your own area plan. Either a hand drawn or a computer generated plan is acceptable. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 6

9 B3 Existing Facilities Your area plan must include all of the following features: Standard map features (North arrow, scale and legend). Municipal district/county name. Legal land location(s). Location of the proposed development. Land(s) to be used for manure application. Neighbours. Distance between the proposed development and neighbours (e.g., residences, CFOs and public facilities). Water courses and common bodies of water. Springs. Runoff patterns. Roadways. Site Plan Requirements (see Appendix 2 for a sample site plan) Your site plan must be on a minimum 8.5 x 11 inch paper, be drawn to scale and show dimensions. A site plan is a more detailed plan of your proposed development and must identify existing and proposed structures. Either a hand drawn or computer generated plan is acceptable. Y our site plan must include: Standard map features (North arrow, scale and legend). Legal land location(s). Location and dimensions of existing and proposed manure storage facilities. Location and dimensions of existing and proposed ancillary structures, residences and barns. Location and dimensions of dead animal storage. Surface and/or groundwater sources. Wells and springs. Common bodies of water Runoff patterns. Run-on and runoff controls. Proposed works in relation to the boundaries of the quarter section in which the works are located. Natural drainage flow. Right-of-ways. Roadways, including access roads. Sewage fields and shelterbelts. Air photo (optional). Ancillary (or secondary, see glossary), on-site structures (e.g., feed mills, silos, weigh scale, office area), excluding residences, are considered part of a CFO. These structures do not require a municipal development permit, but must be considered as part of your application. In the spaces provided, list all existing barns, manure collection areas and manure storage facilities that are already within your development site. In the spaces provided, list all ancillary structures already existing that are within your development site, excluding residences. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 7

10 B4 Proposed Facilities In the spaces provided, list all barns, manure collection areas and manure storage facilities that will be constructed as part of your development proposal. In the spaces provided, list all ancillary structures that will be constructed as part of your development proposal, excluding residences. B5 Fly Control Fly control is required for all proposed developments. The owner of operator of a CFO or manure storage facility must employ reasonable measures to control fly infestation levels at a location occupied by the operation, facility or site. The NRCB may require an owner or operator to use a specific fly control program at a location occupied by the operation, facility or site (Section 20, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Describe the method(s) of fly control you will use. B6 Dust Control Th e NRCB may require an owner or operator to use a specific dust control program at a location occupied by the operation, facility or site (Section 20, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). If you are required to provide dust control measures, or propose to do so, describe the method you will use. B7 Construction Phases In the fields provided, enter the proposed start and end dates for each construction phase, then include details about each phase and list the facilities that you will construct. SECTION C: MINIMUM DISTANCE SEPARATION (MDS) Minimum distance separation (MDS) is a setback or buffer established between a CFO facility and adjacent land uses to reduce nuisance (Section 3, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Owners/operators of a CFO, who wish to construct or expand their operation, must locate their operation and all facilities for the operation in accordance to the MDS. Minimum distances are measured from the outside walls of neighbouring residences (i.e., not property lines) to the point closest to a proposed CFO, manure storage facility, runoff catch basin, compost area, feeding pen/barn or milking facility. Other facilities associated with a livestock operation such as feed handling areas, feed storage areas, offices, water supplies, manure spreading lands and grazing areas are not considered to be part of the livestock facility for the purpose of determining the MDS. The date at which MDS is set for your proposed development is the date on which Part 1 of your application is received by the NRCB, provided that you complete and submit Part 2 and supporting documentation within six months of this date. If you do not meet this 6-month timeline, or you resubmit Part 1 (as stated in B1above), the MDS may be reset at the date of resubmission. You must consider MDS as part of initial project planning. Determining MDS: NRCB Approval Officers use the following guidelines to determine MDS: The MDS is never less than 150 metres. Any landowner/resident can waive the MDS, but it must be provided to the NRCB in writing. The MDS does not apply if an affected residence is owned or under the control of the applicant. A CFO under the control of a single owner/operator with manure storage facilities or manure collection areas located on adjacent land parcels will probably be considered one operation. A manure composting site associated with a CFO is considered to be a manure storage facility. Compost containing manure will be treated like manure for the purposes of MDS. Compost that does not contain manure requires a MDS of 150 metres from residences. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 8

11 For further details on calculating MDS refer to Schedule 1, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA. C1 N eighbour Details Complete one row in the table for each neighbour. If in doubt as to how many neighbours to include, contact your NRCB Approval Officer regarding the MDS. Name Enter the name of the landowners/occupants of the closest neighbouring residences, community halls, businesses, schools, towns, or any other structures. Legal Land Location Enter the legal land location of the neighbour. Zoning Enter the municipal land use zoning of this neighbour. Distance (m) Enter the distance (metres) from the outside wall of neighbouring structures to the point closest to the proposed CFO, manure storage, runoff catch basin, compost area, feeding pen or barn, or milking facility. These distances must match the distances recorded on the area plan prepared and submitted under B2. Method Used to Determine Distance Describe the method used to estimate the distance between your proposed development site and your neighbours. Generally these distances can be estimated from air photos or county/municipal district maps. The NRCB may require a more accurate measurement (e.g., by distance wheel, survey or GPS) if the estimated distance to any proposed structure approaches the calculated MDS. C2 Expansion Factor For expanding operations, the may consider an expansion factor in calculating the MDS for the operation. An NRCB expansion factor only applies to expanding operations that are increasing the size of the facility to store more manure, composting materials and compost or to accommodate more livestock. This factor is determined by the Board. The Applicant is responsible for providing justification to the Approval Officer as to why an expansion factor should be used, the magnitude of the expansion factor, and how their expanded operation will be operated to reduce odour and nuisance impacts when compared to an operation using best management practices. Please indicate if you are proposing an expansion factor to be used in determining the MDS for your operation. By checking YES this notifies the NRCB Approval Officer that you are applying for an expansion factor. Provide reasons and information to support the request for an expansion factor, which the Board may use in determining the appropriate expansion factor to be used for calculating MDS. SECTION D: WATER ACT REQUIREMENTS Operators who apply for a change to their operation that will increase their use of water must obtain a permit or licence under the Water Act. Water Act licences and permits are administered by Alberta Environment. Operators have a choice: they may apply for the water licence through the NRCB when they apply for their AOPA permit, or they may apply directly to Alberta Environment. If the Water Act permit or licence is applied for through the NRCB permit process, applicants must realize that the AOPA permit will be coupled to Alberta Environment s decision on the Water Act application. A decision on the AOPA application will not be issued until both processes are complete. Applicants may apply directly to Alberta Environment for their Water Act licences and permits, rather than going through the NRCB. However, applicants must realize that obtaining one licence or permit before the other does not guarantee that they will be issued the other licence or permit. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 9

12 Applicants should consider the following benefits and risks before they decide whether to apply for both permits through the NRCB, or whether to apply separately to the NRCB and to Alberta Environment: Applying through the NRCB for both the AOPA permit and the Water Act licence or permit Benefits Simplicity. This route is a one window process for applying for both permits. Simultaneous processing and no cost of public notification. The NRCB publishes and pays for the notice for joint applications. This enables statements of concern under both processes to be filed and reviewed at the same time. One appeal process. If the AOPA application goes to a review hearing, the NRCB Board can assess matters related to the water licence as part of that hearing. As a result, the Environmental Appeal Board may not need to hold a separate hearing on the water licence. Risks Potentially longer processing time. Adding the application for the Water Act licence or permit may increase the time required to obtain a decision on an AOPA application. More technical information required at the outset; increased initial cost. Applying for the Water Act licence or permit at the same time as the AOPA permit requires all information supporting the applications to be provided before either decision can be made. The cost of the reports required to support a water licence application can be significant. Processing the AOPA permit and Water Act licence separately Benefits May be a faster process. Applying separately may minimize the time required to receive a decision on an AOPA application. Decision on the AOPA application may be received first. Applying for a Water Act permit or licence can be expensive. Operators may want to receive the decision on their AOPA application before they apply for a water licence, or, if water may be a limiting factor, they may want to first receive the decision on their Water Act application. Deferred cost. The cost to obtain a water licence can be deferred until the water licence is applied for. Risks Uncertainty. Receiving an AOPA permit or water licence before the other is obtained does not guarantee that the other permit or licence will be issued. Longer overall time to receive both permits. Separating the two processes may increase the overall time required to obtain both permits. Statements of concern are called for independently under both processes. Separate appeal processes. The applicant could be subjected to two separate review or appeal processes, one through the NRCB and one through the Environmental Appeal Board. Construction is risky if the water licence is not in place. If an applicant is issued an AOPA permit and constructs the associated structures, and if a licence for sufficient water is not issued, the applicant may have to find another water source that can be licensed, not populate the structures, or reduce water use to a level that can be licensed. Applicant bears cost of public notification. If the permits are applied for separately, the NRCB will issue an advertisement to notify the public of the AOPA application, but the applicant will be required to pay for the public notice for their water licence application. No cost benefit to the applicant. The overall cost of applying for both permits is not reduced if the applicant applies separately to Alberta Environment. Complete this section ONLY if the volume of water used at the site will increase. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 10

13 Any information collected will be used by Alberta Environment (AENV) to determine what licences are required for your proposed development under the Water Act. D1 Water Act Licencing Check one of the options listed here, and provide details ONLY if a Water Act licence is not required. If you are applying for a Water Act licence with this application, continue to D2. If you have already applied to Alberta Environment for a licence or if a licence is not required, go to Section E. D2 Water Requirements at Site NOTE: AENV must be notified of ALL water usage for all animals on site. Calculations must consider water usage requirements for ALL animals on site; this is in addition to the animals being considered under this application. Use Table 5 for calculating your minimum daily and annual water usage requirements. Category/type Enter the animal category and type for ALL animals on the development site, in this column. Number of Animals Enter the total number of animals for each category/type of animal in your proposed development. Daily consumption (litres/animal/day) Use Table 5 to determine required minimum water quantities for each animal per day, and enter this water requirement in Column 3. If you know your own water usage quantities, you may change the default quantities given in Table 5. Daily requirement Multiply Column 2 x Column 3 to calculate the minimum daily water quantities for each animal category/type and enter the sum in this column. In the TOTAL field, add all sums of Column 4 to determine the total Daily requirement for ALL categories/types. Days/year required Indicate how many days in a year the minimum daily water requirement for each category/type of animal is required. Annual requirement (m 3 ) Calculate annual water requirement for each category/type by multiplying together Columns 4 and Column 5, and dividing this amount by In the TOTAL field, add the numbers in Column 6 to determine total annual water requirement for all animals in all categories/types. D3 Authorization for Diversion and Use of Water a. Check Yes or No to indicate whether or not you have an existing licence and/or registration under the Water Act for the proposed development site. If you check No, proceed to D4. b. If you check Yes under (a), you must indicate whether your licence/registration(s) is for surface or groundwater and provide the licence number(s) and the amount of water you are allowed to divert annually. D4 Project Description a. Check all of the following that apply to your application and provide dates and timelines as requested. D5 Affected Water Sources In the tables provided, enter details regarding the surface and groundwater that will be affected by your proposed development. D6 Attachments Depending on your proposed water diversion project(s), you may be required to attach plans or reports to support your application. In (a) through (g), check the type(s) of attachments you are submitting in support of your application. Both surface water and groundwater diversions require the following attachments. a. A plan showing the location. A map, diagram or air photo that shows Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 11

14 the following information: the proposed works in relation to the boundaries of the quarter section in which the works are located the legal boundaries of the land the name and location of relevant water bodies (lakes, rivers, streams natural drainage flow location and direction existing conditions and proposed modifications b. A plan showing the pipeline distribution system, if applicable, that includes the following information: the location of the pipeline including the size and slope of pipe the elevation of the pipe in relation to the relevant water bodies and/or dugout(s) the depth of ground cover c. Details on the intake structure, if applicable. NOTE: This activity may require a separate authorization under the Water Act. Surface water diversion requires a hydrological or hydrogeological analysis of water availability and should include the following information: delineation showing the drainage or catchment area to the proposed dugout/diversion location of existing dugouts/diversion, if any, within the drainage area approximate annual catchment yields for the minimum, median and maximum volumes based on available stream flow data in the geographic area expected evaporation loss for the proposed dugout/diversion flood frequency estimates and water usage requirements existing storage and how long this water supply will last, i.e. storage for 2 years other water users in the drainage basin a contingency plan for times of drought (alternative water sources) If water is to be taken from a natural water body, i.e. lakes, rivers, streams, details of the water intake system are required as follows: classification of the stream from the Code of Practice maps and Restricted Activity Period identification of water withdrawal restrictions placed on the stream, i.e. instream flow needs, water conservation objectives minimum lake objective tied to geodectic elevation. Contact the nearest Alberta Environment Regional Office. If dugout(s) are proposed, provide a plan showing the cross-section of the dugout(s) that include the following, if applicable: overall dimensions (length, width, depth) side-slopes freeboard (distance from maximum water level to top of dugout) Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 12

15 capacity emergency overflow details, if applicable If your project involves groundwater you must attach well drilling reports. In addition, groundwater diversion requires the following: An application with the required information as described in the Groundwater Evaluation Guideline. A groundwater evaluation report may be required with the groundwater application. For amounts less than 3650 m 3 /yr, the applicant can provide the information (refer to page 27 of the Groundwater Evaluation Guideline). If a report is required it must be written by a qualified groundwater specialist and must contain the required information as described in the Groundwater Evaluation Guideline. Contact the nearest Alberta Environment Regional office for further information or access for a copy of the Groundwater Evaluation Guideline or for sample plans. Table 5 Water Quantities for Raising Animals Animal category/type litres/ Animal category/type litres/ animal/day animal /day Dairy Milking cows Chickens Broilers/roasters 0.2 Dry cows, replacements 45.4 Layers/breeders 0.25 Calves (up to 550 lbs) 13.6 Turkeys 0.7 Beef Cow/calf pairs 54.5 Sheep/Goats Milking ewes/does 13.6 Calves (up to 550 lbs) 13.6 Ewes/does 9.1 Feeders ( lbs) 27.2 Feeders/lambs 6.8 Finishers ( lbs) 40.9 Horses, Bison, Mules 45.4 Hogs Sows (farrow to finish) 90.8 Elk, Donkeys 22.7 Sows (farrow to wean-50 lbs) 29.5 Deer, Llamas, Alpacas 9.1 Feeders ( lbs) 6.8 Ostriches 4.5 Weaners (15-50 lbs) 2.3 SECTION E: PUBLIC LANDS ACT REQUIREMENTS This information is collected for use by Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (SRD) to determine what dispositions are required for your proposed development under the Public Lands Act. E1 Applicant Information Answer questions (a) through (d) with regard to your proposed development. E2 Project Description Answer questions (a) through (c) to give a detailed project description that will be reviewed by SRD, including the name of any water bodies and proposed construction start and end dates. SECTION F: PUBLIC HIGHWAYS DEVELOPMENT ACT REQUIREMENTS This information is collected for use by Alberta Transportation. In order to determine whether you require a permit, approval or assessment from Alberta Transportation consider Chapter P28, Public Highways Development Act, RSA 1995 and amendments, and the Highway Development Control Regulations AR 242/96 and amendments. According to this legislation a potential development may not proceed if it is located within 300 metres of a highway right-of-way boundary, or 800 metres of the centre point of an intersection of the highway with another public road, unless a permit has been issued by Alberta Transportation. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 13

16 Additionally, consideration should be given to the following: Access: Direct highway access is a potential safety hazard to highway users and is only permitted when considered essential by Alberta Transportation. Property with access via a local road does not normally qualify for direct highway access. Where direct access is essential, only one direct highway access per quarter section will be allowed. Setback: Setbacks for the proposed development are determined based on the proposed site requirements and future highway improvement plans. The general minimum setback for any development is 70 metres from the highway centreline and no closer than 40 metres from the highway right-of-way boundary, except where these distances must be increased to allow for highway widening. Vegetation: Placement of any trees, hedges or shrubs within 30 metres of the highway right-of-way boundary, or 60 metres from the centreline of the highway, whichever distance is greater, is prohibited without a permit. F1 Project Description a. Indicate whether or not you already have a permit issued by Alberta Transportation. If you check Yes you must enter the Permit Number in the field provided. b. In the Details field, describe the permit under the Public Highways Development Act that you are applying for with this application. F2 Highway Details In the fields provided, enter the highway number(s) and the distance (metres) from each highway centre line to your proposed development location. F3 Applicant Disclosure You (or an authorized agent) must read, sign and date the disclosure section. SECTION G: WATER AND SOIL INFORMATION You may be required to engage a third party consultant or professional to determine engineering soil characteristics for the proposed development. You may want to discuss your proposed development with an NRCB Approval Officer to determine the type(s) of soil testing you may require. As per Sections 7, 8 and 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA you must ensure that water is protected at the location(s) of proposed barns and manure storage facilities. The owner or operator of a manure storage facility or manure collection area must include a liner that lies below the bottom of the facility and above the uppermost aquifer of the site (Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Non-compacted, naturally occurring materials: If the liner is made of non-compacted naturally occurring material, the top of than one metre above the water table of the site at the time of construction. The bottom of a liner must not be less than one metre above the top of an aquifer. the liner must not be less If the liner of a liquid manure storage facility is made of non-compacted naturally occurring material, it must not have less than 10 metres of naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of not more than 1 X 10-6 centimetres per second. If the liner of a catch basin of a solid manure storage facility is made of non-compacted naturally occurring material, it must not have less than 5 metres of naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of not more than 1 X 10-6 centimetres per second. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 14

17 If the liner of a solid manure storage facility or a solid manure collection area is made of noncompacted naturally occurring material, it must not have less than 2 m of naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of not more than 1 X 10-6 centimetres per second. Compacted, naturally occurring materials: If the liner of a solid manure storage facility or a solid manure collection area is constructed of compacted naturally occurring material, it must be constructed to have and be maintained to have a thickness of at least 0.5 metres when measured perpendicular to the liner s surface with a hydraulic conductivity of not more than 5 X 10-7 centimetres per second. If the liner of a solid manure storage facility or a solid manure collection area is constructed of compacted naturally occurring material, it must be constructed to have and be maintained to have a minimum slope of 2% to prevent the collection of water. The bottom of a liner must not be less than one metre above the top of an aquifer. Manufactured liners: If the liner is manufactured, whether of natural or synthetic materials, the bottom of the liner must not be less than one metre above the water table of the site at the time of construction. Alternative Liner Systems: The Board may consider alternative liner systems that are constructed and maintained to provide the same or greater protection than what is required for non-compacted naturally occurring materials. G1 Flood Plain Determination As per Section 8, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA, your manure storage facility/manure collection area must be situated one metre or higher above the one-in-25 year (1:25) maximum flood level to prevent runon from coming into contact with stored manure. If the 1:25 maximum flood level cannot be determined, any part of the manure storage facility or manure collection area where run-on from the highest known flood level can come into contact with the stored manure, must be at least one metre above the highest know flood level. a. Enter the elevation, in metres, of your proposed development above the 1:25 year flood level or the highest known flood level. b. From the options given, check the option that identifies your method of determining the flood level. G2 Natural Water and Wells Unless otherwise allowed by the NRCB, a manure storage facility or manure collection area must not be located less than 100 metres from a spring or water well, or less than 30 metres from a common body of water. If your facility(s) will be located within the minimum 100 metres of a spring or water well, you must be able to demonstrate that the aquifer into which the well is developed is not likely to be contaminated. You also may be required to implement a groundwater monitoring program. If your facility(s) will be within the minimum 30 metres from a common body of water, you must be able to demonstrate that natural drainage from the facility/area is away from the common body of water, or else propose a berm or other secondary protection that protects this common body of water from contamination. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 15

18 Answer questions (a) through (c), entering the shortest distance in metres from the nearest manure collection area or manure storage facility to a: a. spring, b. water well, and c. common body of water G3 Water Table Protection For questions (a) through (c), enter the depth (metres) to: a. bedrock, b. the water table, and c. the uppermost aquifer. Then indicate how you determined the corresponding depth (i.e., estimated or from borehole logs) by checking the appropriate method. G4 Soil Testing If naturally occurring material, either compacted or non-compacted, is proposed to be used as liner material, soil testing may be required to prove that the liner will meet the water table protection requirements outlined in Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA. Complete (a) through (c), entering details as follows: a. Soil texture Enter the percentage of sand, silt and clay of the proposed liner material, as determined by laboratory testing. b. Atterberg limits Atterberg limits are used to measure soil viscosity. For the purposes of an NRCB application you may be required to provide the following Atterberg limits, as determined by laboratory soil testing: The plastic limit, The liquid limit, and The plasticity index. c. Hydraulic conductivity Hydraulic conductivity is a factor in the rate at which water moves through soil. Depending on the proposed development you may be required to enter the rate of hydraulic conductivity for either a natural soil formation or a proposed compacted liner, and describe the test standard used. G5 Attachments If you check Yes you must attach soil testing reports to the application. SECTION H: MANURE COLLECTION AREAS A manure collection area is a location where solid and/or liquid manure accumulates temporarily, before being removed to a more permanent facility. The floor of a livestock corral is not considered a manure collection area. Manure collection areas must be constructed to the same standards for water protection as a manure storage facility (Sections 7, 8 and 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). If you are proposing more than one manure collection area, complete a separate copy of Section H for each manure collection area being proposed. Complete Section J if the manure collection area will be for liquid manure in under barn pits. Complete Section M if the collection area will be a runoff control catch basin. You may be required to complete this section for existing facilities. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 16

19 H1 Manure System Check one of the options given, Solid or Liquid, to indicate the type of manure system proposed. H2 Collection Area b. Check the type of manure collection area you are proposing ( Barn floor or Other ) c. Describe the area in the Details field. H3 H4 Liner Type Manure Collection Areas Surface Water Control Systems Manure Collection Areas A liner is required for all manure collection areas with the exception of a short-term (see def. Appendix 3) solid manure storage. Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA outlines liner standards. For non-compacted, naturally occurring material: The top of the liner must be one metre or more above the water table of the site at the time of construction. Liquid manure collection area liners must not have less than 10 metres of non-compacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. Solid manure collection area liners must not have less than two metres of non-compacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the top of an aquifer. For compacted, naturally occurring material: The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the water table of the site at the time of construction. Solid manure storage liners constructed of compacted, naturally occurring material must be constructed and maintained to have a thickness equivalent to 0.5 metres of material with a hydraulic conductivity of 5x10-7 centimetres per second or less and a minimum slope of two percent to prevent the collection of water. Liquid manure storage liners constructed of compacted, naturally occurring material must be constructed and maintained to provide the equivalent or greater protection to that of a 10 metre thick liner of noncompacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. The bottom of the liner must not be less than one metre above the top of the aquifer. For alternative liner systems: The bottom of alternative liners must be one metre or more above the water table at the time of construction. Alternative liners must provide the same or greater protection as liners described above ((Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Check only one of the proposed liner types from the options provided, and then enter details about that liner in the Details field. Identify the depth below grade in metres of the bottom of the proposed liner. To prevent surface water from entering, and manure contaminated runoff from leaving a CFO or manure storage facility, surface water control systems must be constructed. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 17

20 These systems must not significantly alter regular water flow, must not affect or alter a non-flowing water body and must not be located on a fish-bearing water body (Section 6, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). A run-on control system prevents surface water from entering a manure collection area or facility. A runoff control system collects manure-contaminated surface water. Any collected product must be stored and disposed of in the same manner as liquid manure. a. In the Details field, describe the method of surface run-on control. b. In the Details field, describe the method of surface runoff control. H5 Attachments If you check Yes, in response to any of the questions (a) through (c), you must ensure the corresponding attachments are submitted with your application. SECTION I: STORAGE FACILITIES FOR SOLID MANURE, COMPOSTING MATERIALS AND COMPOST The owner or operator of a CFO must size and construct manure storage facilities to accommodate at least nine consecutive months of manure production, or fewer consecutive months if the NRCB approves a manure handling plan submitted by the owner or operator (Section 10, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Table 4 (page 5) lists typical solid manure production volumes by animal type. Use this table to determine the amount of solid manure storage capacity required for your proposed development, and then complete Section I. If you are proposing more than one solid manure storage facility, complete a separate copy of Section I for each solid manure storage facility being proposed. You may be required to complete this section for existing facilities. I1 Type of Storage For each box you check in this area, you must complete and submit a separate copy of Section I with your application. If you check Other, enter a description of the storage type in the field provided. I2 Storage Capacity Solid Manure, Composting Materials and Compost If you are proposing solid manure storage facilities as part of the application, you must have a minimum storage capacity for nine consecutive months of solid manure production for the proposed development. For purposes of NRCB applications 270 days is equivalent to 9 months. Use a separate row in the table for each proposed manure storage facility. Length, Width, Area In Columns 1 through 3, enter the dimensions of each storage facility. Volume (m 3 ) Calculate the volume of each proposed manure storage facility, then in the TOTAL field, calculate the total volume of solid manure storage. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 18

21 I3 I4 Liner Type - Solid Manure, Composting Materials and Compost Surface Water Control Systems - Solid Manure, Composting Materials and Compost Duration of Storage (days) Enter the number of days you propose to store solid manure for each facility, then calculate the total number of days in the TOTAL field provided. Depth Below Grade (m) Enter the depth below grade for each storage facility. A liner is required for all manure storage with the exception of a short-term (see defn. Appendix 3) solid manure storage facility. Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA outlines liner standards. For non-compacted, naturally occurring material: The top of the liner must be one metre or more above the water table of the site at the time of construction. The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the top of an aquifer. Solid manure storage liners must not have less than two metres of noncompacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. For compacted, naturally occurring material: The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the water table of the site at the time of construction. Solid manure storage liners constructed of compacted, naturally occurring material must be constructed and maintained to have a thickness equivalent to 0.5 metres of material with a hydraulic conductivity of 5x10-7 centimetres per second and a minimum slope of two percent to prevent the collection of water. The bottom of a liner must not be less than one metre above the top of an aquifer. For alternative liner systems: The bottom of alternative liners must be one metre or more above the water table at the time of construction. Alternative liners must provide the same or greater protection as liners described above (Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). a. Check only one of the proposed liner types from the list provided, b. Describe your liner type in the Details field. To prevent surface water from entering and manure contaminated runoff from leaving a CFO or manure storage facility, surface water control systems must be constructed. These systems must not significantly alter regular water flow, must not affect or alter a non-flowing water body and must not be located on a fish-bearing water body (Section 6, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). A run-on control system prevents surface water from entering a manure storage area or facility. Most proposed developments provide run-on control at the solid manure storage facility by constructing above-grade berms surrounding the facility. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 19

22 A runoff control system collects manure-contaminated surface water. Any collected product must be stored and disposed of in the same manner as liquid manure. a. In the Details field, describe the method of surface run-on control. b. In the Details field, describe the method of surface runoff control. I5 Attachments If you check Yes, in response to any of the questions (a) through (c), you must ensure the corresponding attachments are submitted with your application. SECTION J: LIQUID MANURE STORAGE COLLECTION AREA UNDER BARN PITS Complete this section ONLY if you are proposing under barn pits as a form of liquid manure collection and/or storage. As per Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA, you must ensure that the water table is protected at the location(s) of proposed barns and manure storage facilities. Regardless of the type(s) of liquid manure storage proposed, the combined total volume of all liquid manure storage must provide at least nine consecutive months of liquid manure storage capacity. You may propose to construct one or more types of liquid manure storage as part of the application; (see also Section K and Section L). Table 3 (page 5) shows typical liquid manure production volumes by animal type. Use this table to determine the daily, monthly or yearly liquid manure production for your proposed development. You may be required to complete this section for existing facilities. J1 J2 Storage Capacity Under Barn Pits Liner Design Under Barn Pits If you are proposing manure storage facilities as part of the application, you must have a minimum storage capacity for nine consecutive months of manure production for the proposed development. Use a separate row in the table for each proposed underbarn storage pit. Give the dimensions and volume of each pit, and calculate the total volume of all liquid manure storage pits in the TOTAL field provided. For purposes of NRCB applications 270 days is equivalent to 9 months. A liner is required for all liquid manure storage facilities. Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA outlines liner standards. For non-compacted, naturally occurring material: The top of the liner must be one metre or more above the water table of the site at the time of construction. The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the top of an aquifer. Liquid manure storage liners must not have less than 10 metres of noncompacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. For compacted, naturally occurring material: Liquid manure storage liners constructed of compacted, naturally occurring material must be constructed and maintained to provide the equivalent or greater protection to that of a 10 metre liner of non- Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application 20

23 compacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the top of an aquifer. For alternative liner systems: The bottom of alternative liners must be one metre or more above the water table at the time of construction. Alternative liners must provide the same or greater protection as liners described above (Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Answer questions (a) through (c) giving details about: a. Liner materials proposed, b. How joints in the liner will be sealed to prevent leakage, and c. How piping that penetrates the liner will be sealed to the liner to prevent leakage. J3 Leakage Detection In the Details field discuss your leakage detection method, if proposed. Leakage detection may not be required in all cases. J4 Safety Under Barn Pits The liquid manure storage facility must be secure from unauthorized access (Section 12, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). a. In the Details field, describe how vehicles will safely access under barn pits on a year-round basis. b. In the Details field, describe how you will prevent unauthorized access to under barn pits. c. Clearly visible signs warning of the nature and danger of the manure storage facility must be placed at each entrance to under barn pits. Check Yes to indicate that you intend to meet this requirement. J5 Attachments If you check Yes, in response to any of the questions (a) through (c), you must ensure the corresponding attachments are submitted with your application. SECTION K: LIQUID MANURE STORAGE EARTHEN MANURE STORAGE Complete this section ONLY if you are proposing earthen manure storage (EMS) as a form of liquid manure collection and/or storage. As per Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA you must ensure that water is protected at the location(s) of proposed barns and manure storage facilities. Regardless of the type(s) of liquid manure storage proposed, the combined total volume of all liquid manure storage must provide at least nine consecutive months of liquid manure storage capacity. You may propose to construct one or more types of liquid manure storage as part of the application; (see also Section J and Section L). You may be required to complete this section for existing facilities. Table 3 (page 5) shows typical liquid manure production volumes by animal type. Use this table to determine the daily, monthly or yearly liquid manure production for your proposed development. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 21

24 K1 Storage Capacity - EMS When calculating the volume of open liquid manure storage cells you must allow for 0.5 m of freeboard (the space between the maximum fill level of manure to the top of the storage unit). If you are proposing manure storage facilities as part of the application, you must have a minimum storage capacity for nine consecutive months of manure production for the proposed development. Use a separate row in the table for each proposed manure storage facility. (For purposes of NRCB applications 270 days is equivalent to 9 months.) Length, Width, Depth In Columns 1 through 3, enter the dimensions of each storage facility. Slope (run:rise) Enter the run to rise slope for inside and outside walls of each EMS. Side slopes of earthen liquid manure storage (horizontal to vertical) have clear requirements: Inside slopes must not be steeper than 3:1. Outside slopes must not be steeper than 4:1. Shrubs, trees and deep-rooted plants near the sides of the facility must be removed. Volume (m 3 ) Calculate the volume of each proposed manure storage facility (excluding the required 0.5 m freeboard), then in the TOTAL field, calculate the total volume of liquid manure storage. Depth below grade (m) Enter the depth below grade for each EMS. K2 Liner Type - EMS A liner is required for all liquid manure storages. Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA outlines liner standards. Non-compacted, naturally occurring material: The top of the liner must be one metre or more above the water table of the site at the time of construction. The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the top of an aquifer. Liquid manure storage liners must not have less than 10 metres of noncompacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. Compacted, naturally occurring material: The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the water table of the site at the time of construction. The bottom of a liner must not be less than one metre above the top of an aquifer. Liquid manure storage liners constructed of compacted, naturally occurring material must be constructed and maintained to provide the equivalent or greater protection to that of a 10 metre liner of noncompacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 22

25 K3 Surface Water Control Systems - EMS a. Check the type of liner you will have from the two options provided. If you check Compacted earthen as your liner type, you must describe the liner in the Details field (including liner thickness and construction method). b. In the space provided, describe how piping that penetrates the liner will be sealed to the liner to prevent leakage. Piping and other intrusions to the liner must be sealed to maintain the integrity of the liner (Section 17, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). To prevent surface water from entering and manure contaminated runoff from leaving a CFO or manure storage facility, surface water control systems must be constructed. These systems must not significantly alter regular water flow, must not affect or alter a non-flowing water body and must not be located on a fish-bearing water body (Section 6, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). A run-on control system prevents surface water from entering a manure storage area or facility. Most proposed developments provide run-on control at the EMS facility by constructing above-grade berms surrounding the EMS. A runoff control system collects manure-contaminated surface water. Any collected product must be stored and disposed of in the same manner as liquid manure. a. In the Details field, describe the method of surface run-on control. b. In the Details field, describe the method of surface runoff control. K4 Erosion Protection As per Section 14, Standards and Administration, AOPA, you must protect the outside wall and freeboard from erosion with a covering of topsoil and seeding with vegetation (excluding trees, shrubs or deep-rooted plants). Inside and outside walls must be protected from scouring and erosion, as well as wave and flood action. The filling, discharging and agitating areas must also be protected against scouring and erosion (Section 17, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Answer questions (a) through (c), describing how: a. EMS inside and outside walls will be protected from scouring and erosion, b. EMS inside and outside walls will be protected from wave and flood action, and c. the locations where the EMS is filled, or where contents are agitated or discharged, will be protected against scouring or erosion. For d, check Yes to indicate that the proposed development will comply with this regulation. K5 Bottom Filling EMS The influent pipe for filling the primary cell of the liquid manure storage facility must be located within the bottom quarter of the structure (Section 16, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Check Yes to indicate that the proposed development will comply with this regulation. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 23

26 K6 Safety - EMS The liquid manure storage facility must be secure from unauthorized access, and must have signs warning of the nature and danger of the facility placed at each entrance (Section 12, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Year-round access to the liquid manure storage facility must be available (Section 13, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). a. In the Details field, describe how vehicles will safely access the EMS on a year-round basis. b. In the Details field, describe how you will prevent unauthorized access to the EMS. c. Clearly visible signs warning of the nature and danger of the manure storage facility must be placed at each entrance to liquid manure storage. Check Yes to indicate that you intend to meet this requirement. K7 Leakage Detection If required by the NRCB, the owner or operator of a earthen liquid manure storage facility must install and maintain a leakage detection system for the facility, consisting of at least one monitoring well up-gradient of the facility and at least two monitoring wells down-gradient of the facility to monitor for contaminants. These wells must be monitored at regular intervals (Section 18, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). In the Details field, describe the leakage detection system, if proposed. K8 Manure Storage Cover In the Details field, describe the manure storage cover, if proposed. K9 Secondary Containment The owner or operator of an open liquid manure storage facility must provide a system of secondary containment for the liquid manure, if there is a reasonable possibility that it can be discharged into a common body of water. In the Details field, describe the method of secondary containment, if proposed. K10 Attachments If you check Yes, in response to any of the questions (a) through (c), you must ensure the corresponding attachments are submitted with your application. SECTION L: LIQUID MANURE STORAGE CONCRETE TANK, STEEL TANK, SYNTHETIC LINER OR ALTERNATIVE LINER SYSTEM Complete this section ONLY if you are proposing a concrete tank, steel tank, synthetic liner or alternative type of liquid manure storage. As per Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA you must ensure that water is protected at the location(s) of proposed barns and manure storage facilities. Regardless of the type(s) of liquid manure storage proposed, the combined total volume of all liquid manure storages must provide at least nine consecutive months of liquid manure storage capacity. You may propose to construct one or more types of liquid manure storage as part of the application (see also Section J and Section K). You may be required to complete this section for existing facilities. Table 3 shows typical liquid manure production volumes by animal type. Use this table to determine the daily, monthly or yearly liquid manure production for your proposed development. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 24

27 L1 L2 L3 Storage Capacity Concrete Tank, Steel Tank, Synthetic Liner or Alternative Liner Liner Design Concrete Tank, Steel Tank, Synthetic Liner or Alternative Liner Surface Water Control Systems - Concrete Tank, Steel Tank, Synthetic Liner or Alternative Liner When calculating the volume of open liquid manure storage cells you must allow for 0.5 m of freeboard (the space between the maximum fill level of manure to the top of the storage unit). Use a separate row for each proposed manure storage facility. Length, Width or Diameter, Depth In Columns 1 through 3, enter the dimensions of each storage facility. Slope (run:rise) Enter the run to rise slope for inside and outside walls of each liquid manure storage or note if sides are vertical. Volume (m 3 ) Calculate the volume of each proposed manure storage facility, then in the TOTAL field, calculate the total volume of liquid manure storage. Depth below grade (m) Enter the depth below grade for each manure storage. A liner is required for all liquid manure storage facilities. Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA outlines liner standards. Alternative liner systems: The bottom of alternative liners, (which include concrete tanks, steel tanks, synthetic liners and others) must be one metre or more above the water table at the time of construction. Alternative liners must provide the same or greater protection as liners described above (Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Answer questions (a) through (c): a. Provide details about the liner materials proposed, b. Provide details describing how joints in the liner will be sealed to prevent leakage, and c. Provide details describing how piping that penetrates the liner will be sealed to the liner to prevent leakage. Piping and other intrusions to the liner must be sealed to maintain the integrity of the liner (Section 17, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). To prevent surface water from entering and manure contaminated runoff from leaving a CFO or manure storage facility, surface water control systems must be constructed. These systems must not significantly alter regular water flow, must not affect or alter a non-flowing water body and must not be located on a fish-bearing water body (Section 6, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). A run-on control system prevents surface water from entering a manure storage area or facility. A runoff control system collects manure-contaminated surface water. Any collected product must be stored and disposed of in the same manner as liquid manure. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 25

28 L4 L5 L6 Bottom Filling - Concrete Tank, Steel Tank, Synthetic Liner or Alternative Liner Safety - Concrete or Steel Tank, or Alternative Liner Leakage Detection a. In the Details field, describe the method of surface run-on control. b. In the Details field, describe the method of surface runoff control. The influent pipe for filling the primary cell of the liquid manure storage must be located within the bottom quarter of the structure (Section 16, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Check Yes to indicate that the proposed development will comply with this regulation. The liquid manure storage facility must be secure from unauthorized access, and must have signs warning of the nature and danger of the facility placed at each entrance (Section 12, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Year-round access to the liquid manure storage facility must be available (Section 13, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). a. In the Details field, describe how vehicles will safely access the liquid manure storage on a year-round basis. b. In the Details field, describe how you will prevent unauthorized access to liquid manure storage. c. Clearly visible signs warning of the nature and danger of the manure storage facility must be placed at each entrance to liquid manure storage. Check Yes to indicate that you intend to meet this requirement. If required by the NRCB, the owner or operator of a earthen liquid manure storage facility must install and maintain a leakage detection system for the facility, consisting of at least one monitoring well up-gradient of the facility and at least two monitoring wells down-gradient of the facility to monitor for contaminants. These wells must be monitored at regular intervals (Section 18, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). In the Details area, describe the leakage detection system, if proposed. L7 Manure Storage Cover In the Details area, describe the manure storage cover, if proposed. L8 Secondary Containment - Concrete or Steel Tank, or Alternative Liner The owner or operator of an open liquid manure storage facility must provide a system of secondary containment for the liquid manure, if there is a reasonable possibility that it can be discharged into a common body of water. In the Details area, describe the method of secondary containment, if proposed. L9 Attachments If you check Yes, in response to any of the questions (a) through (c), you must ensure the corresponding attachments are submitted with your application. SECTION M: RUNOFF CONTROL CATCH BASINS Complete this section ONLY if you are proposing one or more runoff control catch basins. Complete a separate copy of Section M for each catch basin. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 26

29 M1 Determination of Minimum Required Catch Basin Volume The catch basin must have a storage capacity that can accommodate least a one day rainfall that has a one in thirty (1:30) year probability. In addition, when calculating the minimum volume of the catch basin, you must allow for 0.5 metres of freeboard (space between the maximum fill level of catch basin contents to the top of the storage unit) when the basin is filled to capacity. Enter the calculations for the minimum required catch basin volume in the field provided. (Refer to Schedule 2, Standards and Administration Regulation for information about this calculation.) at M2 Catch Basin Use a separate row in the table for each proposed catch basin. Length, Width, Depth Enter the dimensions of each catch basin. Slope (run:rise) Enter the run to rise slope for inside and outside walls of each catch basin. Side slopes of earthen liquid manure storage (horizontal to vertical) have clear requirements: Inside slopes should not be steeper than 3:1. Outside slopes should not be steeper than 4:1. Shrubs, trees and deep-rooted plants near the sides of the facility must be removed. Volume (m 3 ) Calculate the volume of each TOTAL field, calculate the total volume. catch basin. In the Depth below grade (m) Enter the depth below grade for each catch basin. M3 Liner Type A liner is required for all catch basins. Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA outlines liner standards. Non-compacted, naturally occurring material: The top of the liner must be one metre or more above the water table of the site at the time of construction. The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the top of an aquifer. Catch basin liners must not have less than five metres of noncompacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. Compacted, naturally occurring material: The bottom of the liner must be one metre or more above the water table of the site at the time of construction. The bottom of a liner must not be less than one metre above the top of an aquifer. Catch basin liners constructed of compacted, naturally occurring material must be constructed and maintained to provide the equivalent or greater protection to that of a 5 metre thick liner of non-compacted, naturally occurring material with a hydraulic conductivity of 1x10-6 centimetres per second or less. F or alternative liner systems: The bottom of alternative liners must be one metre or more above the water table at the time of construction. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 27

30 M4 M5 Marker Leakage Detection Alternative liners must provide the same or greater protection as liners described above (Section 9, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). a. Check the liner types listed in the checkbox area indicating the liner you will have. b. In the Details field describe the materials and construction methods for the liner type and provide information on the proposed liner system. Each catch basin must be able to accommodate the 1:30 year one-day rainfall amount and still allow for a 0.5 m freeboard. The level of the 1:30 year probable rainfall amount must be marked on the catch basin and must be clearly visible at all times. This marker must not compromise the integrity of the liner (Section 19, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Check Yes to indicate that an appropriate marker will be incorporated into the catch basin. If required by the NRCB, the owner or operator of a earthen liquid manure storage facility must install and maintain a leakage detection system for the facility, consisting of at least one monitoring well up-gradient of the facility and at least two monitoring wells down-gradient of the facility to monitor for contaminants. These wells must be monitored at regular intervals (Section 18, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). In the Details area, describe the leakage detection system, if proposed. M6 Attachments If you check Yes, in response to any of the questions (a) through (c), you must ensure the corresponding attachments are submitted with your application. SECTION N: MANURE PROCESSING Complete this section ONLY if you are proposing on-site manure digestion and liquid solid separation) as part of your application. processing (e.g., composting, aerobic Other agencies may be required to review and approve the manure processing part of the application. N1 Processing System a. Check all types of manure processing system(s) proposed b. Describe how manure will be processed in the Details field. SECTION O: LAND BASE AND METHOD OF MANURE, COMPOSTING MATERIALS AND MANURE APPLICATION All operators must manage and apply manure, composting materials and compost in accordance with the nutrient management requirements in Sections 22 through 27, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA. Compost containing manure will be treated like manure. Land base tables are provided in Schedule 3, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA as a guide for the minimum amount of land required for manure application based on nitrogen. The land base Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 28

31 requirement is the total useable acreage owned and/or available by written agreement, subject to limitations noted in Schedule 3. If you do not have the minimum amount of land after allowing for required setbacks, you will be required to submit and annually maintain a nutrient management plan that details how nutrients will be managed to meet the requirements of the regulation. Minimum setback distances for manure application are required to reduce the risk of manure, composting materials or compost entering a common body of water, leaving the land on which the manure is applied or creating a risk to the environment. A person must not apply manure, composting materials or compost: Within 10 metres of a common body of water, if subsurface injection is used. Within 30 metres of a common body of water, if manure is surface-applied and incorporated within 48 hours. Within 30 metres of a water well. Within 150 metres from an occupied building if not incorporated within 48 hours (Section 24, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). The application rates for liquid manure and catch basin contents are the same as for solid manure, composting materials and compost. A person who applies liquid manure or catch basin contents must ensure that the manure or catch basin contents do not create a risk to the environment by leaving the land to which they are applied or by entering a common body of water. Liquid manure or catch basin contents cannot be applied on a crop that is grown for human consumption and is commonly eaten raw (Section 27, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). O1 Land Details Complete one row in the Land Details table for each parcel of land where you propose to apply manure or compost. Each column of the table is described below: Name of Landowner(s) Enter the landowner name(s) for all land parcels to be used for manure/compost application. Legal Land Location Enter the legal land description. Area (usable acres) Enter the number of usable acres in each land parcel, then enter the TOTAL number of usable acres at the bottom of this column. Yard sites and treed areas, water bodies, setbacks and buildings are not considered to be usable acres, as land used for manure spreading must be arable. Required setback distance from a common body of water for the application of manure on Frozen or Snow Covered Land and for the application of Manure on Forage or Direct Seeded Crops are listed in Table 6 (page 28). Soil Enter the soil texture and zone codes for the corresponding land parcel. Table 7 (page 28) lists the soil texture codes and Table 8 (page 28) lists the soil zone codes. Incorporation Enter the codes for manure incorporation method and time for the corresponding land parcel. Table 9 (page 28) shows method codes and Table10 (page 28) shows time codes. If you select Other for your manure incorporation method, provide a description of the method in the space provided. Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 29

32 If you select Other for the manure incorporation time, provide a description of your incorporation time in the space provided. O2 Land Use Agreements Land use agreements must be for a minimum 3 year time period and must be signed by all legal land owners for the corresponding parcel of land. If you check Yes you must attach copies of all applicable land use agreements. O3 Nutrient Management Plan Unle ss they have an NRCB-approved nutrient management plan (NMP), oper ators must not apply manure, composting materials or compost to soil if: The soil salinity is more than 4 deciseimens per metre (ds/m), as measured by the electrical conductivity from a soil depth of 0 to 15 centimetres (Section 25, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). The amount of manure applied will increase the soil salinity by more than 1 ds/m, as measured by the electrical conductivity from a soil depth of 0 to 15 centimetres (Section 25, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). The nitrate-nitrogen in the soil, after the manure, composting materials or compost are applied will exceed the limits in Schedule 3 of the Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA. The NRCB may authorize a person to apply manure to land in accordance with a NMP proposed by the person if the NRCB is satisfied that following the NMP will provide the equivalent or greater protection to the water and the soil (Section 26, Standards and Administration Regulation, AOPA). Soil Testing: Soil testing and sampling must be conducted according to the most recent edition of the Manual on Soil Sampling and Methods of Analysis, published by the Canadian Society of Soil Science. Soil Analysis: Standard laboratory procedures must be used for the soil analysis and this information should be reflected and referenced in the records kept and soil testing must include the following: a. extractable nitrate-nitrogen (NO 3- N) from a soil depth of 0 60 cm; b. soil salinity based on Electrical Conductivity (E.C.) from a soil depth of 0 15 cm; c. soil texture; one-time analysis from a soil depth of 0 15 cm and cm. Soil test information must be no older than three years for developing a nutrient management plan, except for soil texture, which is a one-time analysis (Standards and Administration Regulation, Schedule 3). Existing operations have until the end of 2004 to comply with the soil testing, and salinity and nitrogen loading limits contained in the regulations. If you check Yes you must attach a copy of a nutrient management plan to the application that describes how you will meet nutrient loading requirements. O4 Manure Handling Plan If you check Yes you must attach a copy of your proposed manure handling plan to the application (e.g., transportation of manure to a third party manure processing facility). Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 30

33 Table 6 Minimum Setback Distances for Application of Manure to Frozen, Snow-covered Land and Forage or Direct Seeded Crops Mean Slope Required Setback from a Common Body of Water Less than 4% 30 m 4% but less than 6% 60 m 6% but less than 12% 90 m 12% or greater No application allowed Table 7 Soil Texture Codes Code Description Code Description S Sand Si Silt L S Loamy sand SiL Silty loam SL Sandy loam CL Clay loam L Loam SiCL Silty clay loam SCL Sandy clay loam SiC Silty clay SC Sandy clay C Clay HC Heavy clay Table 8 Soil Zone Codes Code Description B Black DB Dark brown/brown GW Grey Wooded I Irrigated Table 9 Ma nure Incorporation Method Code Description T Tillage P D Plough down DI Direct injection O Other Table 10 M anure Incorporation Time Code Description I Injection 24 Within 24 hours 48 Within 48 hours O Other Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 31

34 Appendix 1: NRCB Regional Offices NRCB Regional Offices Fairview Box 159 Provincial Building St. Fairview, AB T0H 1L0 Phone: Fax: Morinville Room 201, Provincial Building St. Morinville, AB T8R 1L3 Phone: Fax : Red Deer 303, St. Red Deer, AB T4N 6K8 Phone: Fax: Lethbridge Agriculture Centre 100, Ave. S Lethbridge, AB T1J 4V6 Phone: Fax: Regional Office Locations NRCB RESPONSE LINE: CONFINED LIVESTOCK AND MANURE MANAGEMENT Guide 1A: How to Complete a NRCB Application (November, 2005) 1