All that is required to find a solution to this “problem” is to alter our perception of manure as a waste product to it being an important component of healthy and sustainable farming. Composted manure has been an important part of farming for generations.

It is important to understand the context behind why manure has become an issue in the equine industry. With approximately 35,000 horses in the Lower Mainland that produce 1200 tonnes of manure a day, there is a lot of industry out-put that needs to be dealt with. The current condo-style living arrangements most horses reside in mean that large numbers of animals are living in small confined areas. This means that there is a lot of waste produced and not enough land to use it on.

It is also important to note that many people living on horse properties are not necessarily farmers and so do not have any experience with manure management. In many cases, mismanagement occurs due to honest ignorance. That is why LEPS is here to help provide education and technical assistance with our new Horse Manure Composting Project.

For indepth information about Horse Manure Composting please visit www.manuremaiden.com.