Ask SAM: Carcass disposal has many options

This column is provided by Larimer County Extension's Small Acreage Management (SAM) Program to assist rural residents.

Dear SAM,

I have an old horse that will probably pass away in the next year or two. I'd like to make plans for handling the carcass. What are my options?

Peter

Dear Peter,

The old jokes about the glue factory were based in truth. In years gone by, deceased animals were often taken to a rendering facility. Rendering plants paid for the animals, which were considered a valuable raw material. Carcasses were processed and the byproducts were used to make goods such as candles, soap and glue.

Times have changed. Rendering facilities are few and far between these days. Instead of being paid for a carcass, livestock owners often have to pay a disposal fee.

Weld County Bi-Products is a Greeley company that accepts animal carcasses for a small fee. They may also pick up dead animals at your property for an additional charge. Weld County Bi-Products can be contacted by phone at 352-1788. The animals are used in pet foods, so carcasses must be fresh and in good condition.

Deceased animals can be taken to the Larimer County Landfill on Taft Hill Road. The landfill disposal cost is $5.60 per 50 pounds of carcass. Contact the Larimer County Landfill at 498-5760 or call the 24-hour information line at 498-5770.

Many livestock owners choose to bury deceased animals on their property. Burial is low cost and keeps the animal close to home.

Colorado law requires animals to be buried and covered with soil at a depth of at least 2 feet. Animals may not be buried in places with high groundwater or that are periodically flooded. The burial site should be at least 100 feet from surface water such as creeks or ponds and 300 feet from water wells. No permits are required.

Composting is a viable option for large livestock operations and could be used by small acreage owners with smaller species of livestock. Carcasses must be completely covered during the composting process. The site should be protected from scavenging animals that might dig at the carcass. Drainage should be contained to protect surface water and groundwater.

For efficient composting, the compost should be kept moist and turned periodically for aeration. If properly managed, no offensive odors should be generated. If the compost smells bad, it could be too wet or need to be turned. Do not compost animals where odors could drift onto neighboring properties. With good management, the composting process can be completed in six to eight months.

Losing an animal can be an unhappy time. Having a plan for handling the carcass can reduce the stress of making decisions on short notice.

SAM

Have a question about rural living? Write to Ask SAM, Larimer County Cooperative Extension, 1525 Blue Spruce Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80524 or e-mail emarx@larimer.org.