Roofs
Roofs can support conservation
Roofs can act as conservation practices that cover protected areas on a farm and channel rainwater to a controlled location.
Do you notice any of these issues on the farm?
- Muddy barnyard
- Gully erosion
- Rainwater leaching nutrients from a manure stack
Photo credit: Westmoreland Conservation District
Roofs have many benefits
- Keep rainwater out of animal waste handling or storage areas
- Channel rainwater away from the barnyard
- Improve stormwater management
- Protect nearby surface water
Other practices are associated with roofs
Roofs are often part of a comprehensive system involving several conservation practices. Some common associated practices include:
- Roof runoff structures
- Composting facilities
- Underground outlets
- Heavy use area protections
- Manure storage facilities
Many design choices are possible
Roofs are designed based on the dimensions and other factors of the structure that they cover. Assistance with design, obtaining permits, and construction is available
(see links at the end of this fact sheet for more information).
What maintenance is required?
Roofs may require occasional inspections to address storm damage or structural issues and to ensure proper ventilation.
Interested in trying a roof structure for conservation?
Roofs are eligible for funding through several conservation programs administered by the State Conservation Commission and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Costs are dependent on materials, labor, size, and type of structure. Additionally, several local funding sources may be available through organizations such as County Conservation Districts or local nongovernmental organizations.
For more information, reach out to staff at the Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training, NRCS or your local conservation district office.
Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) Practice Code: 367
Prepared by Katie DeSa and Jake Tomlinson, Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training
