ARS | Publication request: ZOONOTIC PATHOGENS FROM MANURE: TRANSPORT AND FATE

Submitted to: University of Delaware Cooperative Extension
Publication Type: Other
Publication Acceptance Date: November 19, 2003
Publication Date: February 1, 2004
Citation: Pachepsky, Y.A., Fayer, R., Perdue, M.L., Shelton, D.R., Van Kessel, J.S. 2004. Zoonotic pathogens from manure: Transport and Fate. [CD-ROM]. University of Delaware Cooperative Extension.

Technical Abstract: This presentation is intended to serve as an introduction in research and management issues related to the transport and fate of manure-borne zoonotic pathogens. Concerns related to health effects, omnipresence, public perception, economic toll, and security issues are addressed. Features of manure-borne pathogens, such as survival ability, high reproduction rates, evolving species, size, and detection difficulties, are recapped. Transport pathways are described, including runoff and infiltration, atmospheric transport, access of aimals to waterways, farm sewage lines, retention pond overflows, and farm products. Non-farm sources are recapitulated. A research example of fecal coliform partitioning between runoff and infiltration is given. Literature survival data are included. Control measures are outlined including preventing direct access of animals to surface water, manure treatment, wetlands, retention ponds, buffer strips, feral animal control, soil surface management, and on site sewage treatment. Primary research needs and directions are summarized comprising indicators of pathogens, efficiency of buffer strips, microbial source tracking, rapid detection, and predictive tools.