A CRACKDOWN on the burning of horse manure is being launched in Ryedale.
The Environment Agency says the number of incidents and complaints involving the storage, spreading and burning of manure in the area has risen steadily over the past few years.
Officials have attended several fires which were so severe the fire s
ervice had to be called.
Once, the smoke was so bad its effect was visible over the whole Malton area.
The campaign will raise awareness among farmers and stable owners who store and spread large quantities of manure.
Environment Agency officer Steve Richardson said: "The use of manure as a fertiliser is a centuries-old practice and we have no intention of stopping this.
"However, the increase in horse riding as a leisure activity and the introduction of more stables has meant large amounts of animal waste have become an increasing problem."
Horse manure from stables is classed as commercial waste and any deliberate burning is illegal.
Storing large quantities can also have a serious effect on the environment if it is not done correctly and liquid run-off can affect water quality.
Now Environment Agency officers plan to visit Ryedale farms and stables which keep large amounts of manure and advise on how to minimise the effect manure heaps have on the environment.
Mr Richardson said: "We prefer the approach of offering advice and guidance on pollution prevention, but we will not hesitate to take the relevant enforcement action should it be necessary.
"They have an obligation to make sure it is stored correctly and under no circumstances should it be set on fire."
