Ballyharrahan Pig Farm - Environmental Protection Agency · Ballyharrahan Pig Farm Environmental...

Ballyharrahan Pig Farm Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (E.I.S.)

RELATING TO

PIG ENTERPRISE

AT

BALL YHARRAHAN, RING, DUNGARVAN,

CO. WATERFORD

FOR

THOMAS & TREVOR GALVIN, BALL YHARRAHAN, RING, DUNGARVAN,

CO. WATERFORD

LIAM BUCK, MCIAT, MSCSI, C. Build. E, FCABE,

OCTOBER 2016

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1.0 Non -Technical Summarv

Introduction

This Environmental Impact Statement (E.I.S) has been prepared by Mr.liam Buck with the assistance of persons and bodies referred to hereafter. This E.I.S. has been prepared in accordance with the Planning and Development Act 2000-2013, Planning and Development Regulations 2001-2013 and the Protection of the Environment Act 2003.

This E.I.S. forms part of an application for a License to the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.). for Ballyharrahan Pig Farm, Ballyharrahan, Ring, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford for the rearing of pigs in installations, whether within the same complex or within 1OOm of that complex, where the capacity exceeds 2000 places for production pigs which are each over 30kg.

The enterprise complies with animal welfare regulations (known as S.l. No. 31 1 of 2010) and the Nitrates Regulations, (known as S.l. 31 of 2014). The enterprise allows for activities on the farm providing a specialization of farm practices on the site.

The farm and enterprise is located on C. 2.368 Ha in the town land of Ballyharrahan. The site is accessed from the public roadway. The site is located C. 4 km's south of Dungarvan town and is accessed by C 90m of internal roadway/laneway leading from the public road and terminating at the farm enterprise.

Description of Development

On review of the First Schedule of the EPA Act, the class of activity at this farmyard falls under the reference of 6.2(b). The rearing of pigs in installations, whether within the same complex or within 1OOm of that complex, where the capacity exceeds 2000 places for production pigs which are each over 30kg.

This farm carries all pigs to finished size on the farm. Stock numbers can at times vary plus or minus 10% at any given time. This is a well managed farm with buildings in a good state of repair throughout. The main activities carried out on the site revolve around the care and management of the pigs.

• Breeding and rearing of pigs • Feeding of pigs • General animal husbandry • Movement of animals on site • Power washing of houses between batches • Transport of feed to the farm • Transport of pigs and culls from the farm • Transport of manure off the site.

Site layout plans and maps for the farm have been submitted as part of the application and the farm 'NOrks from Bam - 6pm normal working hours.

Glen, Clonea, Oungarvan, Co. Waterfm·d OSB 44224

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Just to note that at times the stocking figures can vary increasing slightly with smaller stock, say 4700 pigs at 28kg's. However, no extra waste will be produced if this happens as the overall waste produced would be the same from the smaller pigs.

The farm currently consists of nine fattening houses, each house having its own waste storage tank. All waste storage tanks are connected using slurry channels and piped to the over ground slurry storage tanks shown. This enterprise has a total usable waste capacity of over 3000m3which is adequate for over 36 weeks waste production storage. The enterprise also contains adequate ancillary structures and equipment necessary for the management of the animals and the administration of the farm as a whole. The main inputs on the farm include feed and water, medicines and electricity. The feed is acquired from the animal feed industry. The water for the stock and for washing the facilities is obtained from a gravity water supply feeding storage tanks on the farm.

Pigs and pig slurry are the main outputs from the farm. The annual output of organic fertilizer from the facility will be 4867m3. It is collected and stored in tanks on the site until it can be transferred to customer farmers for their use to fertilize their landholdings in lieu of using chemical fertilizers. Records for the movement of the fertilizer are being kept on the site and all farmers receiving the fertilizer are obliged to spread it on lands in accordance with Sl31 of 2014 (Good AgricuHural Practice for Protection of Waters).

The existing structures and equipment on the site are in good serviceable condition and will continue to be maintained in that regard.

Organic Fertilizer Production and Storage

The provision of adequate storage for organic fertilizer produced on the farm and the efficient use of the nutrients contained therein, is a major environmental factor in developing pig enterprises. Existing organic manure production equals C.4,867m3 per annum based on the average occupancy rate of 3850 pigs over 30kg's.

The net organic manure storage capacity on the farm as it exists equals C. 3,032m3. This storage capacity will ensure that organic fertilizer produced on the farm is spread only under favourable soil and climatic condition and is well in excess of the 6 months storage as required by the Nitrates Directive (S.I. 31 of 2014) and EPA licensing requirements.

Organic fertilizer I manure produced on the farm will be utilized on agricultural land that has an agronomic requirement for this fertilizer.

Utilisation of Organic Fertiliser

The organic fertilizer from this farm will be used by the customer farmers in accordance with S.l. 31 of 2014, or any subsequent amendment to same. Farmers are entitled to fertilize their farmland with a fertilizer of their choice, subject to the requirements and stipulations of this directive.

Ballyharrahan Pig Farm has a good knowledge of the demand for organic fertilizer in the area due to a long number of years experience with this existing pig farm and the host farmers.

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S.l. 31 of 2014 confers rights and responsibilities on the customer fanner. It is clearly prescribed in Article 16 of S.l. 31 of 2014 that the responsibility of nutrient management planning is the responsibility of each occupier of a holding.

Pig manure is an animal by product by reference to the Animal By-Products Regulations (S.I. 252 of 2008 and Regulation EC/177 4/2002). The deposition of by-product pig manure on land to supply fertilizer nutrients is provided for and is controlled under the Nitrates Regulations (S.I. 31 of 2014 and Directive 91/676/EEC) is lawful use of the manure and is not a waste recovery activity. The use by customer farmers, of pig manure from this installation on lands farmed by them is required to be in accordance with the terms prescribed in Fertilizers and Soil Improvers Order (S.I. 253 of 2008) and the Nitrates Regulations (S.I. 31 of 2014)

The procedure for the management of the fertilizer from this enterprise and for the lawful transfer of same to customer farmer's holdings who seek a supply from this farm is:

• Collect all manure in tanks in the manner required under S.l.31 of 2014 • Store all manure temporarily in the tanks pending sale and/or transfer to customers as by product

fertilizer, as is provided for and authorised under S.l. 252 of 2008, that use by customers is required to be in compliance with standards prescribed in S.l. 253 of 2008 and S.l. 31 of 2014 and

• Record all transfers from the farm holding as is required by Article 21 (1)(g) in S.l. 31 of 2014 and to maintain the records for relevant inspectors.

All soiled water generated on the site is being diverted and will be diverted to the manure storage tanks. Pig movement between houses will be on slatted passageways with manure storage tanks underneath. Any movement of pigs between houses on hardstand areas will have any soiled water from those areas collected and directed to the manure storage tanks.

Information pertaining to the customer farmers and all other information as required by Article 23 and in line with the requirements and stipulations of S.l. 31 of 2014 (European communities) (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters Regulations 2014) will be maintained on-site and will be made available for inspection as required.

Application of Organic Fertilizer

Farmers will be advised as to the requirements to be complied with when applying organic fertilizers to land. In addition to this the farm manager will ensure that all information required to be forwarded to these customer farmers is completed as soon as practicable upon receipt by them of organic fertilizer. These requirements including the requirements pertaining to the application of animal manures to land are as outlined in S.l. 31 of 2014. Odour nuisance will be minimized and surface and ground waters protected by, using the correct application rates, spreading at the correct times under suitable conditions and strict adherence to spreading zones and the Codes of Good Practice for manure spreading, as outlined in S.l. 31 of 2014. This fertilizer planning will result in fertilizer substitution.

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Ballyharrahan Pig Farm Environmental Impact Statement (EIS}

The adequacy and quality of storage provided and the allocation and utilization of all fertilizer produced on this farm in accordance with S.l. 31 of 2014 ensures that this farm has no negative impacts on the farmland. The adequacy of storage provided will ensure that organic fertilizer is spread only under the most favourable soil and climatic conditions, preventing any soil structural damage. Hydraulic and chemical loading will not be exceeded due to the fact that all organic fertilizer is to be applied in accordance with S.l. 31 of 2014, thus preventing nutrient build up in.

Surface and Ground Water

Customer Farmers are presently obliged to farm in accordance with S.l. 31 of 2014, or any subsequent amendment to I derogation from same. This also applies to the organic fertilizer utilized by them from Ballyharrahan Farm. This has long term environmental benefit and will ensure that there is no adverse impact on water quality in these areas. The E.P.A.., Waterford City and County Council and/or the local fisheries board carry out water quality monitoring on an ongoing basis in the area. To date there has been no indication that this existing development has had any adverse affect on water quality in the area. The accompanying Natura Impact Statement (N.I.S) confirms that there will be no adverse effect on water quality in this area from the continued use of this facility.

There is no increase in the scale of activity on this farm over and above that previously and presenHy stated to Waterford County Council in the previous application and to the E.P.A in the course of this application and complies with S.l. 31 of 2014 and S.l. 311 of 2010.

Clean storm water discharge is to the land drain as shown on the site layout plan. All storm waters from the facility discharge to this drainage system and ultimately to the adjoining watercourses and ultimately end up in Dungarvan Harbour. Soiled water is being directed into the manure storage tanks. Surface and ground waters around the pig farm are being directed to the waste storage facilities.

Air I Climate

All practicable steps such as landscaping, washing routines etc., have been planned for on the farm and will be taken so as to minimize odour from the site. The nature of the development means that there is no adverse impact on the local area. Its rural setting and location and the distance from the local residences will ensure no significant adverse effect on human beings. This development has no significant adverse effect on climate. As part of this submission, an N.I.S was carried out which confirms this.

Visual Aspect and Landscape

The farm and site of the enterprise situated on 2.368 Hectares in the town land of Ballyharrahan and accessed from the public roadway which is located C.4km south of Dungarvan town and accessed via C.90m of laneway from the public road terminating at the farm.

The zoning of the area in which the site is located is predominanHy agricultural as stated in the Waterford County Development Plan 2011-2017. The eastern boundary of the site has been landscaped by the planting of trees. An earthen embankment has been provided on the south and west side of the farm

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buildings. The entire farm enterprise is situated within an existing farmyard complex which was originally set up in 1965. All necessary planning permission is in place for the enterprise and ancillary works.

Noise/ Traffic

This enterprise has been at this location since 1965 before any local housing was constructed in the immediate vicinity. The closest existing house to the facility is C. 200m to the north of the site where noise levels from routine rural activities are considered to be below the acceptable threshold. It is not anticipated that noise at this site will have any adverse impact on the local environment due to the fact that there are no other dwellings and no other potential sensitive locations located close to the enterprise.

There will be no additional traffic associated with the operation of this farm over and above that of the existing facility. The traffic associated with the facility due to feed deliveries to the site and the transport of organic fertilizer/manure from the site during the spreading season as well as the transport of pigs from the site all remain the same as has been the case in excess of the previous decade.

All other traffic such as vets, advisors, consultants etc will remain constant. This pig farm has existed for over 50 years on this site and there has been no indication of any adverse environmental impact due to traffic flows. Transport of dead animals from the farm to a rendering plant occurs weekly I fortnightly. The remainder of the traffic will be associated with staff movement to and from the site.

Flora and Fauna

The organic fertilizer produced on this farm is allocated to farming lands that have traditionally been receiving animal manures and chemical fertilizers to maintain soil fertility and ensure satisfactory grass or crop production. The organic fertilizer produced on this farm will be used to replace the imported inorganic chemical fertilizer that would otherwise have been or is currenHy being used.

All habitats within these lands such as wooded areas, scrubland etc would be excluded from receiving organic fertilizer from this farm due to the requirements of the nitrates directive. A planned pest control programme is currently implemented on the farm.

This facility has been an agricultural farm for over 50 years and the level of plant diversity around the farm has been established over that time. The majority of the surrounding area is traditional intensively managed grassland based on agricultural lands.

Special Policy Areas

• N.H.A.'s, S.P.A.'s and S.A.C.'s

The existing site is located in the Dungarvan Bay catchment area, The facility is C.2km south of Dungarvan Harbour and as such is in proximity to

• Dungarvan Harbour S.P.A 004032

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• Blackwater River (Cork/Waterford) S.A.C 002170 • Helvick Head S.A.C 000665

As part of this proposal a Natura Impact Statement (N.I.S) was prepared which deals specifically with these issues.

• Amenity Areas

The enterprise is not located close to or likely to adversely impact on: Any amenity areas as described in the Waterford County Development Plan 2011-2018.

• Cultural Heritage (incl. Architectural and Archaeological Features)

There are no buildings or structures of architectural significance located on or adjacent to the site or likely to impact the facility. There is no evidence of any archaeological features at the site, and no such features were discovered during the completion of the existing developments. The facility is not located near or likely to impact any monument or sites of archaeological interest as identified in the online database of national monuments. The facility will not adversely impact on the archaeological features or cultural heritage of the area.

• Material Assets

The existing enterprise has been established since 1965 and no new works are being carried out therefore this enterprise does not adversely impact on the material assets of the area including agricultural and non agricultural properties or resources including natural resources, land or other infrastructure.

• Wastes Generated on Site

All wastes generated on site, such as animal tissue waste, veterinary waste, general packaging etc will be stored and disposed of or recovered in accordance with applicable regulations and in accordance with the E.P.A. requirements. A designated Construction and Demolition Waste Management Plan will be implemented on the farm for the duration of the proposed works.

• Population I Employment

The pig farm will employs two persons directly. The profitability of the customer farmers receiving pig manure is boosted by cheap fertilizer nutrients replacing imported energy demanding inorganic nutrients. This farm will have no adverse effect on tourism in the area of the site due to its remote location.

Agriculture and tourism are the mainstay of the local economy and provide a significant source of local employment. The pig sector makes a valuable contribution to the Irish agricultural economy and is valued at over 8,000 people employed in primary production, processing and allied industries.

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Tourism

Agriculture and tourism are the two most important industries to the economy of this area. A significant proportion of the rest of the economy in the area has arisen as ancillary services or businesses to these two main industries. It is of extreme importance therefore that these two industries can coincide and develop together for the good of everyone in the area. Agriculture is an all year round industry whereas tourism is mainly a seasonal one. The pig farm site itself has no impact on tourism in the area.

The odour impact associated with this enterprise is a transient one that lasts only for 2 -3 days.

Cumulative Effects

Within the County

This pig farm is located in mid county Waterford, south of Dungarvan Town and close to the coast. Reference to the National Pig Census 2013 indicated that there are only C. 14 pig farms with greater than 100 pigs in the county, out of a total of 383 for the country. Thus pig production in Co. Waterford represents C. 3.66% of the country's pig units. Further details included in this survey highlight the fact that only C. 5.6% of country's fattening herd is located in this county.

It is not anticipated that this enterprise will lead to any impact on the local environment as it hasn't done so to date.

This proposed development would also be in keeping with the goals of the National Spatial Strategy which seeks to achieve more balanced regional development to optimize the potential of all regions to contribute to the continuing prosperity of the county.

Within the Local Area

The impact of the enterprise within the local area can currenHy be categorized as minimal as the enterprise has been established at this location since 1965 and as such is an integral part of the local area in itself. Indeed, the enterprise adds to the local area and proves to be a positive contributor to the local farming needs as it contributes fertilizer to the local landowners in place of importing chemical products.

Summary

Overall this enterprise has a positive impact on the environment as it has been in existence and well established with over 50 years.

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Introduction Ballyharrahan Pig Farm

Agriculture and tourism are the mainstay of the local economy and the local area has a well organised agribusiness sector. This industry also provides a source of organic fertilizer to farmers in the area. This has a positive effect on the local economy as it saves costs associated with the purchase of chemical fertilizers. Organic manures such as pig manures are becoming ever more sought after by tillage and livestock farmers in order to reduce fertilizer costs.

This Environmental Impact Statement is for an existing pig production facility that has been in existence with over 50 years. This E.I.S is prepared to aid the application for a license for this facility from the E.P.A The enterprise operates to the highest environmental and welfare standards while at the same time providing what can be considered a reasonable return for the applicant.

It is not proposed that there will be any intensification of the overall activities on the farm. The existing facility ensures compliance with animal welfare recommendations with regard to the stocking densities and provide adequate space in order to rear pigs to a suitable weight, usually 120 kilos.

Planning History

The subject site is an existing pig fattening facility and the existing farm was developed over 50 years ago prior to the introduction of the Planning and Development Act. The stocking numbers have remained constant over the years and C. 201 0 due to changes in the floor area requirements per animal for stocking densities, some of the houses were altered to accommodate all of the existing stock within regulations. A planning application was applied for to Waterford County Council, Ref: 12/306 to cover the building alteration works as required. This application was granted on 30th January 2013. No other planning application is relevant to this enterprise.

E.P.A. License

This E.I.S is prepared to accompany an application to the E.P.A for a License for this facility. It is proposed that this farm houses 3850 fattening pigs from 30kg to 120kg. However, periodically the pigs may enter the farm at a much smaller size and exit at a smaller finishing size, say from 28kg's to 1 05kg's allowing the stocking figures to rise accordingly but only for the duration of the stocking of those animals. No extra waste will be produced where this happens as the greater number of pigs relate to a much smaller animal.

Waterford County Development Plan 2011· 2017

The current Development Plan has been in existence for a few years and because of the amalgamation of Waterford County Council and Waterford City Council it is the case that the current Development Plan period has been extended to 2018, making the current Waterford County Development Plan 2011 -2017 the central document of the planning system for the Local Authority for the future development of the county. The existing planning permission on the subject site has been judged by the Local Authority against the current Waterford County Development Plan and the Planning Permission has been granted therefore the development site can be taken as complying with the policies of the Waterford County Development Plan and in line with the policies of sustainable development in the area.

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DESCRIPTION OF DEVELOPMENT

The activity/activities on this site comprise the rearing of pigs in a facility where the capacity exceeds 2000 places for fattening pigs. The overall site area, as shown outlined in red on the attached site layout plans is 2.368 Hectares. The site is based in the rural area of Ring, Co. Waterford in the townland of Ballyharrahan.

The farm comprises nine fattening houses (approximate cumulative floor area 3,780m2) including passages having an area of 1, 170m2 giving an effective floor area of 2,610 m2 for pig housing. Each house has its own waste storage tank, all of which are together connected up and piped to a slurry reception pi~ shown, and ultimately to the over-ground slurry storage tanks giving an overall slurry storage capacity of 3,45Qm3, which is adequate for over 36 weeks output storage.

The site also contains adequate ancillary structures and equipment necessary for the accommodation and management of the animals and for the administration of the farm as a whole. The buildings and equipment on the site were installed and designed for the sole purpose of rearing fattening pigs for sale from the installation for processing into the food chain for human consumption by the por1</bacon industry. The farm has the capacity to accommodate the 3,900 pigs, between 30kg and finished bacon weight at around 11 Okg. The production on the site is continuous but deliveries and collections are periodic normally between the hours of Bam and 6pm, while staff are on the site.

The main inputs are feed, water, medicines and electricity. There is no fuel usage for heating. Pig feed is acquired from the animal feed industry. Water for the pigs and for washing the facility is obtained from a gravity water supply feeding storage tanks on the farm, there is no borewell on or near the installation. Pig houses have been modernised by adding floor area to accommodate EU stocking densities and are naturally ventilated.

The outputs from the farm are pigs, as the primary product which is then processed into the human food chain and pig manure which is a by-product which is supplied to customer farmers for use as fertilizer on their farmlands.

It is only natural that some animals die of natural causes before maturity. These carcasses are placed in a closed skip on the farm and sent for disposal at an authorised rendering facility as required by legislation in the E.C. (Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy's and Animal By-Products) Regulations 2008, (S.I. 252 of 2008, ABP Regulations) that implements regulation EC/1774/2002 (as amended}. Vermin and pest control is managed by a programme within the facility. Disposal of waste and small quantities of hazardous material (sharps, etc) is handled as required by separate waste legislation. It is the policy to minimise waste accumulation and recycle as much as is feasible. However, the total volumes of recyclable material are generally small.

Storm water from the roofs and clean yard areas is discharged to a watercourse at the eastern side of the farm at the site boundary. There is no effluent discharge outside of the storage facilities on site. Respiration gas/odour emanates from the animal houses and from the animal manure especially during agitation or movement of the manure. Odour emitted from the site does not cause nuisance or interference with amenity beyond the site boundary. The closest neighbouring house is in excess of 200m to the north of the farm buildings. The structures and equipment within the facility are maintained and serviced in good

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order and will be carried on in the same manner. The technology and practices used on the farm for the rearing of pigs and for the control of emissions from the farm are the best available for the enterprise (BAn. Pig manure is an animal by-product and is a lawful fertiliser for farmland. It is collected and stored in tanks in the installation until transferred to customer farmers for their use in fertilising their land holdings. Dispatches to customers are only in response to orders for specified quantities. The supply and transfer of manure is governed under separate legislation (SI 253 of 2008 and Sl 252 of 2008). Customer's use of pig manure they acquire from the activity/installation reduces their requirement for chemical fertilizer from the chemical fertiliser industry.

The discharge of storm water from the site will be monitored to detect any effect of the activity on surface waters, soil depth in the site is >3m. Underground tanks are constructed with concrete and are highly unlikely to impact ground water. Overground tanks have a concrete base and are of circular steel construction and are not likely to impact groundwater. The activity is not in or near or adjacent to any protected site or protected habitat, and will not adversely impact any such site or habitat. Best available techniques are used to ensure efficient operation, efficient management of by-product, minimal production of waste and a high standard of protection for the environment as whole, with minimal risk of significant pollution. If the activity on the site ceases, animals in stock will be sold, consumable inputs returned to source, manure tanks emptied and the site will be secured.

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Ballyharrahan Pig Farm

Site Plan Showing Existing Development

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I

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Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

0

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Glen, Clonea, IJu ngarvan, Co. Waterfm·d (}58 4·4224

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Operation of the Farm

Staff operating hours are primarily 08.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday and 08.00 to 14.00 on Saturday and Sunday, however automatic feeding and ventilation systems will be operating outside of these hours. This farm is operated in such a way that only essential activities are carried out outside of these hours. The pig farm owner will be available at all times should any emergency arise regarding this farm and will retain overall responsibility for the day to day running of the farm.

Production

The activity/activities on this site comprise the rearing of pigs in a facility where the capacity exceeds 2000 places for fattening pigs. The overall site area, as shown ouHined in red on the attached site layout plans is 2.368 Hectares. The site is based in the rural area of Ring, in Co. Waterford in the townland of Ballyharrahan. The farm comprises nine fattening houses (approximate floor area 3,780m2) including passages having an area of 1, 170m2 giving an effective floor area of 2,610 m2 for pig housing. Each house has its own waste storage tank, all of which are together connected up and piped to a slurry reception pit, shown, and ultimately to the over-ground slurry storage tanks giving an overall slurry storage capacity of 3,450m3, which is adequate for over 36 weeks output. The site also contains adequate ancillary structures and equipment necessary for the accommodation and management of the animals and for the administration of the farm as a whole. The buildings and equipment on the site were installed and designed for the sole purpose of rearing fattening pigs for sale from the installation for processing into the food chain for human consumption by the pork/bacon industry. The farm has the capacity to accommodate the 3,900 pigs, between 30kg and finished bacon weight at around 11 Okg. The production on the site is continuous but deliveries and collections are periodic normally between the hours of Bam and 6pm, while staff are on the site.

Feeding

Pigs will be fed with weUdry feeders and a computerised feeding system. Water is supplied to the pigs via water feeders. Feed per pig is calculated on an average feed consumption on the farm on an annual basis divided by the number of pigs.

Water Supply and Use

Annual water usage is estimated at about 8,800m3. This includes water that is used for cleaning and feeding processes. All the water for the installation is from a gravity supply which is fed to storage tanks and reserve storage tanks on the farm. Water is distributed from there to pig houses and feed mixing location as required.

Wastewater generated in the cleaning of pig houses is all collected in the under-floor tanks. The volume of soiled water generated is a small fraction of the slurry collected in the tanks. All drinkers for pigs are maintained in a good working order such that wastage and leaks are minimised and/or prevented.

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Heating and Ventilation

Energy supply to the farm is an electric 3-phase supply @ 220 and 380 volts

Electricity

Electricity is the main source of energy used in the installation. It is used to drive the feed distribution systems and equipment used in the maintenance and running of the activity. Pig houses are not heated so there is no electricity or other fuel used for heating. An energy audit will be undertaken in due course.

Lighting

The pig houses use natural lighting only, no artificial lighting is used for animal housing in this facility.

Ventilation

All ventilation on this farm is computer controlled mechanical ventilation, or Automatically Controlled Natural Ventilation

Facilities

The site layout plan identifies the structures that are devoted to pig production on the site. The pig houses and tanks listed in Attachments D.2 and D.3, respectively, summarise the current functional use of the different houses and the available capacity of all the slurry collection and storage tanks in the installation.

The total floor area of 9 pig houses (less passageways) is approximately 2,610m2. The accommodation is adequate for the 3,900 pigs between 30kg and bacon weight (currenHy 110kg) that are fed in the installation. The combined net capacity of the pig slurry tanks is approximately 3,032m2. Capacity exceeds the 26 weeks storage capacity required by S. l. 101 of 2009. It is adequate for over 36 weeks manure production storage.

The production process involves the acquisition and husbandry of pigs at about 30kg and their feeding until ready to be sold and dispatched to a slaughter plant for meat production. Sale weight can vary somewhat with variation in markets. The environmental and nutritional requirements of the pigs can change as they progress through the production process. The changes in requirements can be met by moving the pigs at critical weights to different pens within the installation and by changing to more appropriate diets. Major inputs are pig feed (mostly cereal and protein feeds) fortified with the vitamins and minerals essential for pig health and well being and water. As pigs grow older, they progress satisfactorily at reducing house temperatures and they perform satisfactorily on diets of lower nutritional concentration, i.e. less energy, protein, minerals and vitamins per kg of diet. Diet variation within normal range is not of environmental significance. A baiting programme for vermin control is continuous.

Need for and use of medication for fattening pigs of the age and weight in this installation is very limited. Similarly, mortality among pigs of this class is low, generally less than 2%. Mortality and general well-being is influenced positively by specialised production facilities and methods (better nutrition, hygiene, ventilation, etc). Dead pig carcasses are removed from the installation for disposal as required under the

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European Communities {Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy's and Animal By-Products) Regulations 2008 {S.I.252 of 2008). A record of all despatches of waste from the site is maintained at the site.

Live pigs are the main product, produced as the raw material for the bacon industry. Pig manure is a major and important by-product. The Regulations in S.l. 252 of 2008 classify animal manure {including pig manure) as an animal by-product (Category 2 material) and provide for its sale or supply and transfer for use in fertilising land. It is collected in tanks under the pig houses. It is stored pending supply and distribution to customer farmers who acquire it for their use as a source of NPK plant nutrients for their crops and soils. Distribution and transport of pig manure from the installation to customer's tanks or fields may be by either customers or by contractors delivering customer's order. Use of pig manure by customers to fertilise farmland in their holdings is authorised generally under the Diseases of Animals Act 1966 {Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy's) (Fertilizers and soil improvers) Order 2008 (S.I. 253 of 2008) and the Nitrates Regulations (S.I. 101 of 2009). The deposition of the manure and all other fertilizers on farmland by the Occupiers of holdings who acquire it, is required to be controlled by those Occupiers and done to comply with the terms prescribed in Sl101 of 2009, as they apply to their holdings. The applicant for a licence, as a producer and a supplier of fertiliser, has no controlling role in the use of pig manure despatches from the installation is maintained and is available at the installation for inspection by authorised inspectors.

Feeding and ventilation are mostly controlled by automatic monitoring/control systems. The management and operation of a pig enterprise is a seven days a week job, but the applicants attendance is only as required to manage operations and monitor feeding and health and welfare of the animals.

Houses Schedule of Pig Houses

House No. Current Use Length M Width (m)

A Fattening 123.2 4.7 B Fattening 123.2 4.7 c Fattening 123.2 4.7 D Fattening 90.2 4.7 E Fattening 90.2 4.7 F Fattening 30.8 4.7 G Fattening 25.44 14.1 H Fattening --- -K Fattening 31 .1 13.72 Total m2

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Area (rn2) Less Animal Passage House Area Area (rn2) (rn2)

579.04 225.46 353.58 579.04 332.64 246.40 579.04 332.64 246.40 423.94 81.18 342.76 423.94 110.04 313.90 144.76 27.72 117.04 358.7 22.90 335.80

266.98 - 266.98 426.57 42.61 384.96 3,782 2,572

Gle n, Cionea, Oungarvan, Co. Wate rford 058 44224

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DATA REQUIRED TO ASSESS THE EFFECTS OF THE DEVELOPMENT

The pig farm operation results in the production of two by-products, • Fattened pigs for rending, • Organic fertiliser for customer farmers.

In addition a number of waste streams are also generated. These may include pig carcasses I animal tissue waste and veterinary waste. The quantities of the various wastes generated, their storage and their ultimate disposal are detailed in the following sections. The only remaining emission from this farm is clean storm water from roofs and yard areas which is being discharged via a storm water attenuation drainage system to the nearest land drains to mediate storm water discharges from the farm.

Organic Fertiliser I Manure Production

The annual estimated production of organic fertiliser/manure from the farm is calculated in the following table. This estimation is based on calculations using S.l. 31 of 2014. The manure production at this farm is calculated as:

0 ' Frtl' 1M )raamc e 1ser anure r uction pod .

Annual Manure Production

Animal Type Number Manure Production Total M3

Weaner 3900 1.48m3 per place - 4,867

• Data taken from European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations, 2014 (S.I. No.31 of 2014)

Manure Storage Capacity

Identification Sizes Total House A Tank Length 123.200m x Tank Width 0.610m x Tank 53.583Jn3

Depth(0.913 -0.200 freeboard= 0.713m)

House B Same 53.583ml House C Same 53.583ml HouseD Length 90.200m x Width 0.610m xDepth 0.713m 39.231ml House E Same 39.231ml House F Length 30.800m x Width 0.610m x Depth 0.713m 13.396ml House G Length 25.440 X Width 14.100m X Depth (1.830-0.200 = 584.688ml

1.630) House H 266.980m2 x (0.913m- 0.200m = 7.13m) 198.357ml House K Length 31.100 x Width 13.716m x Depth (0.913m-0.200m 304.143m3

= 0.713m) Circular Tank x 2 (TT (9m)2 x (3.530m - 0.300m = 3.320) 1 ,643.036ml Slurry Sump Length 5.000 X Width 3.650 X Depth (3.000- 0.300 = 49.275ml

2.7000) Total 3,032.106m3

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Allocation of Organic Fertiliser I Manure

There is no uncontrolled release or emission of slurry, effluent, ash or sludges to ground in the activity or from the installation. The operator of the activity, the applicant for a licence, does not "landspread" pig manure/slurry from the activity on land controlled by the licence. All pig manure is supplied and transferred from the installation in accordance with legislation, to customer farmers who acquire it for their use on their holdings. Their use of the manure is required to comply with standards currenHy prescribed in S.l. 253 of 2008 and S.l. 101 of 2009. Pig manure produced by the activity in the installation is an animal by-product that is not discarded and is not released to land or to ground and is not an emission from the installation.

Pig manure produced by the activity is collected and stored in tanks in the installation until the customer farmers acquire it for their use on their farmland. The distribution of manure to individual farmer customers who use it is limited to the amount ordered by them. It is supplied to them in compliance with the relevant terms prescribed in the European Communities (Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy's and Animal By-Products) Regulations 2008 {S.I. 252 of 2008), the Diseases of Animals Act 1966 (Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy's) {Fertilisers and Soil Improvers) Regulations 2008 {S.I. 253 of 2008), and the European Communities {Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2009. All dispatches of manure from the installation complies with the requirements of Sl1 01 of 2009. All dispatches in response to customer farmers requests/orders for supplies are in the knowledge and on the understanding that customers acquisition and their use of the manure by deposition on land is required to comply with the relevant terms prescribed in the same S.l. 253 of 2008 and S.l. 101 of 2009 regulations, as they apply to their holdings at the time the manure is deposited by them.

Use of pig manure by customer farmers reduces the amount of fertiliser those farmers need to purchase from the chemical fertiliser industry. The application does not contain proposals in relation to "landspreading" of pig slurry (application rates, periods of application, mode of application), as the applicant does not engage in landspreading in the installation or on lands elsewhere controlled by a licence. Furthermore, all such details in relation to the application of fertilisers to land related to and are the responsibility of the Occupiers of Holdings who acquire consignments of manure from the facility for their use, in circumstances where their use is separately and independently controlled in regulations prescribed in S.l. 253 of 2008 and S.l. 101 of 2009.

The applicant does not and cannot control or monitor, or pretend to control or monitor, the actions or practices of independent farmers. The acquisition and transfer of pig manure from the farm by customer farmers is governed by, and is required to comply with, Regulations in a S.l. 253 of 2008, and also with S.l. 252 of 2008 which implements Council Regulation 117 4 of 2002 in Ireland. The collection and storage of pig manure and the deposition on farmland of pig manure by customers is regulated by, and is required to comply with, Regulations in S.l. 101 of 2009 that implements the Nitrates Directive {91/676/EEC) and were made under the European Communities Act 1972. Compliance with those and other relevant Regulations by the different responsible parties provides for the prescribed level of protection of the environment from adverse impacts as a result of the transfer and use on farmland of all fertiliser materials, including pig manure, and all other manures from farmed animals.

All pig manure produced in the installation is offered for sale in accordance with Regulations in S.l. 253 of 2008 for use by customer farmers whose use is required to comply with Regulations in S.l. 253 of 2008 and

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S.l. 101 of 2009 that implements the Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC) and were made under the European Communities Act 1972. Compliance with those and other relevant Regulations by the different responsible parties provides for the prescribed level of protection of the environment from adverse impacts as a result of the transfer and use on farmland of all fertiliser materials, including pig manure, and all other manures from farmed animals.

Demand for pig manure is such that manure does not accumulate significantly in the installation except during the period when the use of fertilisers by customer farmers is prohibited under the Regulations in S.l. 101 of2009.

The foregoing is a description of the on-site and off-site arrangements in place for the lawful sale or supply and the transfer of pig manure from the installation for use by customers.

In relation to animal by products, (including animal manure that is included in Category 2 Material under Article 5 in Regulation (EC) No 1774/2002), that is intended for use to fertilise land, and for the purposes of S.l. 253 of 2008:

"purchase"

"Sell"

"Supply"

includes buy, take in exchange, accept as a gift or otherwise (whether directly or through another person) includes offer, expose or keep for sale, invite an offer to buy, or distribute for reward or otherwise (whether directly or through another person); means to give without reward.

Location of Potential Customer Farmlands

The location of this pig farm is central to the customer farmers farmlands which are located through County Waterford. The customer farmers utilise the pig manure to replace imported chemical fertiliser for efficient grass and tillage production. This is primarily an agricultural area with a low population density.

It is anticipated that any potential customer farmers within a reasonable distance from this pig farm can be supplied with organic fertiliser for use in accordance with S.l. 31 of 2014

Customer Farmers

Pig manure is managed on site and used by customer farmers as an organic fertiliser in compliance with S.l. 31 of2014. This is monitored by the Department of Agriculture, Food and The Marine and records of same are being maintained and submitted as previously detailed.

The Applicant will supply all of the pig manure from this facility to local customer farmers for use on their farmlands instead of manufactured chemical fertiliser products imported from outside the state. The application of animal manure to farmland is now regulated under S.l. 31 of 2014 and management of manure on the site complies with these Regulations.

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Organic Fertliser/Manure Application Rates

Organic fertiliser from this farm will be allocated for use in accordance with the requirements of S.l. 31 of 2014.

This will ensure utilisation of the nutrient content of the pig manure, which is as follows: Nitrogen* 4.2kgfm3 Phospherous* 0.8kglm3

Taken from (S.I. 31 of 2014).

Surface Water and Ground Water

Uncontaminated water from the roofs of the buildings and clean paved areas within the farm is being piped separately and discharges to the existing land drainage system. Roof waters from the pig houses is being directed to the land drains shown on the site layout plans. The owner inspects those drains and the discharge points on a regular basis. Any soiled water coming from pig walkways etc is being directed into the slurry storage tanks.

Animal Carcasses and Animal Tissue Waste

Animal carcasses and animal tissue are and will be accumulated in a sealed, waterproof container on site for collection at weekly intervals for transport to Dunlavin Rendering Facility by Molloy Waste Services Ltd., Lawlesstown, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. License Reference Number: WC CK-10-0768-01, Expiry, 23.02.2016

Veterinary Waste

Rinsed containers are included with the general recycling refuse as at H.2. (i). The Recyclables are collected by Quality Recycling Ltd, Unit 6, Rosehilllndustrial Estate, Ballinacurra, Midleton, Co. Cork, Waste License Registration Number: NWCP-012-11065-01, Expiry Date 2017.

Used sharps are stored in a sealed container on site and removed by the veterinary surgeon Mr. Denis Kelleher, Agri Health, Monaghan, as necessary.

General Waste

Recyclables are included with the general recycling refuse as at H.2. (i) The volumes produced are very small. Recyclables, floor sweepings, etc, are collected by Quality Recycling Ltd, Unit 6, Rosehilllndustrial Estate, Ballinacurra, Midleton, Co. Cork, Waste License Registration Number: NWCP-012-11065-01, Expiry Date 2017.

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Services

Electricity

Mains electricity exists on the farm with a three phase supply. The electricity is currently used for the following:

• Control systems for automatic feeding systems including augers, mixers and pumps. • Power for automatic ventilation systems. • All artificial lighting to pig housing, offices and outside yards. • Power for water pumps etc.

Water supply currently comes from the on-site well and is stored in an on-site water storage tank. Please refer to Appendix No.10 for water quality results in relation to same.

Proposed annual water usage = c. 10,000- 12,000 m3/ annum

Fly & Pest Control

Flies, rats and mice are carriers of some of the infections that are detrimental to pig health. In addition, rats and mice can cause considerable damage to insulation materials and accessible woodwork, thereby reducing buildings thermal efficiencies and longevity. A programme for pest control and rodent control has been implemented on this farm in line with Bard Bia guidelines

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DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATIVES

Alternative Sites Considered

This E. I.S. is specifically to deal with a pig fattening farm which is in existence since 1965 and associated with the licensing of this pig farm enterprise. Therefore the question of an alternative site does not arise to the degree it would if the applicant was proposing to develop a new green field site. It is proposed to carry on with the running of this farm to improve the environmental protection measures and animal welfare standards and efficiencies on the farm and to help ensure that the farm will remain competitive and viable into the future.

This farm is described as being for the rearing of pigs in installations, whether within the same complex or within 100m of the that complex where the capacity exceeds 2000 places for production pigs which are each over 30kg located at Ballyharrahan, Ring, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Planning permission has been granted by Waterford City and County Council for the regularisation of all works on the farm as it currently operates. This farm is applying for a license from the Environmental Protection Agency. Pig farming activities have been carried out at this site for C. 50 years. The enterprise as it stands has the following:

• The farm has all the necessary pig housing on the site, together with all ancillary structures to comply with incoming animal welfare requirements.

• This farm operates as a specialised 2000 plus pig fattening facility. This farm currently operates in an efficient and economical manner.

• This proposal will help streamline the monitoring process for any leak detection, surface water quality monitoring, flood mitigation measures so as to minimise any potential adverse impact on the environment.

As there will be no intensification of activities on the farm all of the mitigation measures and efficiencies will continue to serve to minimise any potential impact and reduce same for the existing activities.

This site has been in existence for the past 50 years.

Alternative Layout and Design

The farm enterprise has been at this location in excess of 50 years.

The design of the farm was development over the intervening years by the applicant and was researched and reviewed with the aid and guidance ofT eagasc pig development officer, the engineer and commercial pig equipment suppliers. The farm layout takes into account European Communities (Welfare of Pigs) Regulations, 1995. These regulations lay down standards for the protection of pigs kept in intensive or other systems of breeding, rearing or finishing and give effect to Council Directive 91/630/EEC of 19/11/91. These standards have been further outlined in S.l. No. 311 of 2010.

The layout design uses existing overground manure storage tanks which complies with BAT principles, regarding the transfer of organic fertiliser from under slat tanks to external storage.

Glen, Clonea, Oungarvan, Co. Waterford 058 44224

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Alternative Process's Considered

The Teagasc pig advisory service was set up in the early eighties and Ballyharrahan Pig Farm used this service as an integral part of running this farm enterprise.

The processes being carried out in the facility are in line with the principals outlined in animal welfare legislation. Historically alternative systems of production were considered, however, due to the type and location of the site and the areas climate other pig farming techniques were dismissed and slatted underground slurry storage was adopted in this case.

Organic fertiliser recycling is carried out by allocating this fertiliser to those customer farmers who request a supply from this farm in preference to the alternative chemical fertiliser to those customer farmers who request a supply from this farm in preference to the alternative chemical fertiliser. The machinery used for this activity has been modernised over the years to make this process more environmentally friendly. To this end all farmers are advised that slurry tankers should be fitted with low trajectory splash plates.

There is no other satisfactory economic or environmentally friendly alternative process for commercial pig production under Irish climatic conditions.

Alternative Management of By-products

Application to land is the one practical economic means of utilising the nutrients in pig manure. Organic fertiliser from this farm will be used in the local area as an alternative to imported artificial fertiliser. The method of manure spreading proposed (i.e. low trajectory splash plate), is very practicable and should minimise potential odour emissions from the manure. Existing demand for organic fertiliser in the area is well in excess of that which is being produced by the existing development as observed by the applicant in practice over recent years. This has resulted in a significant economic saving on those farms that utilise it as a source of fertiliser as opposed to imported energy demanding chemical fertiliser, while at the same time returning additional important trace elements to the soil not provided by the chemical substitutes.

Trial work conducted by EOLAS on alternative treatment methods for pig manure was carried out in the Sheelin area (Co. Cavan) approximately 20 years ago. This project failed to establish an alternative method for manure treatment that was viable at a commercial level.

Teagasc have completed a study (led by Peadar Lawlor, Teagasc, Moorepark and presented at the T eagasc Pig Farmers Conference 2011) which looked at a number (5) of treatments/partial treatments for pig manure and compared them to the traditional practice of utilising this organic fertiliser to fertilise land. This study concluded that, at present, there was no other viable alternative for the use of pig manure.

There is no other suitable alternative for the disposal of animal carcasses and tissue waste or veterinary waste.

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DESCRIPTION OF THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

Soil and Subsoil Geology

The enterprise and all ancillary structures and associated site works is located outside of Dungarvan in County Waterford on the site of the applicanfs existing farm and ancillary facilities at Ballyharrahan, Ring, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. The site is owned by the applicant. The site location map is attached to the E.I.S for reference purposes.

Topographic Features and Solid Geology

Site and Immediate Area

County Waterford is situation in south east Ireland and occupies an area of 1 ,857km2. The county is bounded by counties, Cork, Tipperary, Kilkenny and Wexford. Waterford is a large rural county which comprises of the Comeragh Mountains with an agricultural landscape.

The proposed site is located at Ballyharrahan. This area is identified as an area of high sensitivity in the landscape classification contained in the Waterford County Development Plan. This class largely encompasses the county's main rural and agricultural areas. These areas comprise natural enclosing features (e.g. topography, vegetation) which have the capacity to absorb a range of new developments.

It is detailed in the County Development Plan that, these areas in general can absorb quite effectively, appropriately designed and located development in all categories (including telecommunication mast and wind energy installations, aforestation and agricultural structures) and due to the rural nature of the area, development shall be screened by appropriate natural boundaries that are sympathetic to the landscape generally where possible.

The general topography and morphology of County Waterford is quite varied. It is determined to a large extent by the underlying geology. Topographically the county can be divided into three zones:

• The mountainous region of the Comeragh Mountains to the North • A flat lowland zone extending along the River Suir and along by the coast line. • An area in between the aforementioned areas where the topography varies from rolling to gently

undulating, the shape and form determined by the effects of Quaternary glaciations.

The farm site is on a sloped area of land, falling from the south to the north. The site of the pig farm is not obtrusive in the surrounding landscape. The ground levels are as depicted in the site plans, sections and contour details as submitted with the application.

The top soil, sub soil and bedrock in this area of County Waterford are shown on the following maps. The aquifer is designated as being Locally Important with a vulnerability of High.

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Ballyharrahan Pig Farm

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Map showing Topsoils in the area of the Facility Site. Top Soil is shown as Acid Deep Well Drained Mineral.

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

Teagasc:H>IIS Acrd Oeep Well Drained Mrneral

Acid Deep Poorly Drained Mineral

Acid Poorly Orain8d Pe1ty Mila ral

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Mineral Alluvium

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Glen, Clonea, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford 058 44224

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