ABSTRACT
In modern intensive animal farming, the disposal of a large amount of waste is of great concern (Arnold and Meister, 1999; Withers et al., 1998), and, if not properly disposed of, can pollute groundwater because of the high content of nitrate [URL Ref. No. 201] and phosphate [URL Ref. No. 202]. Gamier et al. (1998) presented the results of a study in tended to assess the environmental sustainability of animal waste [URL Ref. No. 240] disposal on agricultural soils in the alluvial plain of the River Chiana (Tuscany, Italy). Gamier et al. (1998) employed a strategy that consisted of integrating a management model and GIS (Geographical In formation System). The consequences to groundwater of ap plying animal waste [URL Ref. No. 240] to different kinds of soil and crop arrangements were simulated by means of the management model GLEAMS (Groundwater Loading Effects of Agricultural Management Systems). Final results indicated the following:
(1) The amount of animal waste produced in some of the in vestigated areas (i.e., municipal territory) was greater than that disposed on their own agricultural soil with no risks to the groundwater.
