Simulation of transport through soil of E. coli derived from livestock slurry using the MACRO model

• Published in: Soil use and management Vol. 19; no. 4; pp. 321 - 330
• Main Authors: MCGECHAN, M. B, VINTEN, A. J. A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wallingford CAB International 01.12.2003
• Subjects: Agronomy. Soil science and plant productions; Animal productions; Biological and medical sciences; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Soil and water pollution; Soil science; Terrestrial animal productions; Vertebrates; Escherichia coli; Animal slurry; E.coli; Model study; Organic fertilization; POLLUTION BY AGRICULTURE; Bacteria; Biological contamination; Public health; Enterobacteriaceae; Farming animal; application to land; Zoopathogen; Coliforms; Leaching; Colloid; Waste management; slurries; Simulation; microorganisms; Livestock; Water pollution; Models; Microorganism; Animal waste
• ISSN: 0266-0032; 1475-2743
• DOI: 10.1079/SUM2003321

The transport of Escherichia coli in liquid animal manure applied to agricultural land through soil to receiving waters was studied using the MACRO dual porosity contaminant transport model. Parameter values were chosen to simulate flows through soil, sorption, and E. coli die-off. The simulations agreed well with experimental observations showing rapid flow of microorganisms to field drains after slurry application, probably via macropore flow that does not trap colloids. Further simulations on the effects of soil and weather conditions on E. coli movement showed that transport is strongly influenced by soil wetness at the time of spreading and somewhat influenced by rainfall soon after spreading. Timing of slurry application to occur when weather and soil moisture are favorable would greatly reduce environmental risks of water pollution from E. coli and other fecal organisms in animal slurry.