Groundwater levels as affected by swine waste lagoons in high water table soils

The popularity of anaerobic lagoons for use with confinement swine operations in Southeast Virginia has been increasing in recent years. These lagoons are not difficult to build and maintain and have served as a feasible method of waste disposal in the region. This area typically has a high water table with sandy loam soils. There has been concern by state officials that these units could possibly cause contamination of groundwater in the surrounding area due to infiltration from the lagoons to the water table. The deep aquifer in this area is a good potable source of water. Its low concentrations of minerals make it feasible for both private and industrial use.

This study was initiated to evaluate the possibility of a pollution hazard from anaerobic lagoons.