The table shows the rainfall per week in mm and the mandatory storage periods required across the 26 counties. The net storage per cow is also shown and is based on the storage period and 0.33m3 of net storage per week. The total slurry storage capacity required per cow for the storage period is shown for four different storage systems.

The four storage methods are – the indoor slatted tank, the outdoor slatted tank, the circular slurry store and the geomembrane-lined store.

The other variables chosen are the tank depths of 2.4m, 2.7m, 3.6m and 4.23m which are common depths for these types of storage systems.

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If, for example, four extra weeks’ storage are required in Galway, divide the capacities by the storage period (18 in this case) and multiply by 22. So, the values in the table for net and total storage will become 7.26m3 7.92m3, 10.96m3, and 11.72m3 and 9.28m3 . While the specified storage periods are mandatory, any extra storage will depend on particular needs and affordability. Ask your adviser to calculate your storage needs based on existing storage, future needs and storage systems being considered.