Comparisons of alternative feedlot runoff management systems

Two vegetative treatment and containment systems were designed in Oliver and Dunn Counties of North Dakota, USA. The results showed that unit costs for the systems designed in Oliver County were 8.83 and 7.18 $/m(2) for vegetative treatment system and containment systems, respectively. Same values for Dunn County design were 7.22 and 5.82 $/m(2). According to the results, vegetative treatment systems are not always the best practice to manage feedlot runoff. The topography and climate of the location should be carefully studied before making a decision.