To the editor,

The spring season brings many wonderful things to our lives - chirping birds, plants working their way out of the soil, and warm sunshine. Spring in our area also includes the hauling and land application of liquid manure from CAFOs. Frequently, tanker trucks hauling this manure need to drive on township roads, and many of these roads were not built to withstand the high volume of heavy truck traffic. There is wide concern about the premature aging of these roads and the high cost to repair or replace roads due to damage. Many townships who have concerns about road damage are studying - and adopting - Operations and Road Ordinances.

Spring manure hauling season is also a time for residents to be aware of traffic and environmental concerns from the process of liquid manure hauling and land application, such as blocking lanes of traffic, spilling manure on roads, causing damage to gravel roads, and running stop signs. If you witness dangerous or concerning situations, be a good neighbor. For driving and traffic concerns, alert the County Sheriff: Pierce 715-273-5051 or Pepin 715-672-5944 and the State Patrol 715-839-3800. For manure spills and environmental concerns, call the DNR’s anonymous tip line 1-800-847-9367 and the County Land Conservation Department: Pierce 715-273-6763 or Pepin 715-672-7242.

Doug & Nancy Weiss

Salem Township landowners