With an early spring looking like a good possibility, Wisconsin agriculture officials are asking farmers to check the Runoff Risk Advisory Forecast online before spreading manure.

They encourage farmers to avoid spreading manure during high-risk runoff times. If farmers must spread manure during such times, they should steer clear of high-risk fields and have a spill response plan in place.

“Farmers are eager to get their manure pits cleaned out after the winter, we understand. But it’s equally important to spread manure when and where it will remain to fertilize the crop and protect...