Dead Animal Disposal

Dr. Bill Rotenberger, Former N.D. State Veterinarian

One of the most unpleasant issues resulting from the winter of 1996-97 is proper disposal of animal carcasses. Not only have producers had the economic loss of the animal but also have the additional burden and expense of disposal.

To avoid concerns of public health, environmental contamination and pollution of water, producers must use an acceptable procedure to remove all carcasses. State law requires that dead animals be either burned, buried, rendered, or composted. In some situations it will be difficult to accomplish this task because the carcass is buried in snow or frozen to the ground. Disposal may have to be delayed until such time as the carcass can be handled.

There are discussions on how rendering companies, disposal services, and municipal landfills may assist in this problem. According to the State Health Department, municipal landfills and transfer stations will be flexible in receiving carcasses. Rendering and sanitation services are willing to help out but do not have the capabilities to provide service to all areas.

Animals may be burned, and if so the remains are to be buried. If the whole carcass is to be buried, it must be covered with 4 feet of dirt.

There is experimental work being performed by agricultural engineers at the University of Missouri on composting of large farm animal carcasses. The process consists of covering carcasses with sawdust and waiting as temperatures rise inside the compost heap to 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Producers in need of assistance disposing of large numbers of animals should contact the State Veterinarian's office at 701-328-2655.

Livestock producers must accept the responsibility to properly dispose of dead animals. Cooperation in addressing this unpleasant problem is appreciated.