Commercial animal farm manure releases more harmful nutrients into the environment.
Animal manure from commercial farms contains higher levels of phosphorus (P), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) compared to manure from household animal units. P concentration decreases from chicken to pig to cow manure. The forms of P, Cu, and Zn in manure are mainly extractable and easily available. Commercial farm manures have higher proportions of extractable forms compared to household unit manures. Water-soluble P, Cu, and Zn levels are significantly higher in commercial farm manure. Using manure from commercial farms releases more P, Cu, and Zn into the environment than using manure from household animal units.