Livestock Infrastructure and Engineering Support

This resource document is intended to support farmers implementing infrastructure and engineering projects that may require technical assistance. Some projects can be planned, designed, and completed by experienced tradespeople, such as plumbers. Other projects may require engineering expertise, or a farmer may choose to consult an engineer even when not strictly required.

When selecting an engineer for your project, ask about their experience with similar work. For example, an engineering firm may be skilled at designing parking lots with proper drainage but may have limited experience with the specific drainage needs of a composting pad or dairy barn. Be sure they understand the requirements of your project.

List: Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Technical Service Providers (USDA)

Select “Maine” from the drop-down menu, then look for the practice.


Candi Gilpatric
(retired NRCS employee)

I Want Candi Engineering LLC
1253 Woodman Hill Road
Minot, ME 04258

Phone: 207.212.2488
Email: candace.gilpatric@gmail.com


University of Vermont (UVM) Agricultural Engineering Extension


John Porter
UNH Emeritus Extension Specialist

Email: johncporter@myfairpoint.net


The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) website’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts page may have resources or be able to direct you to resources.


Mark Hedrich

Maine DACF’s Nutrient Management Program


Zahner Equipment

Milking systems, knowledge on installing frost-free waterers.

Phone: 207.453.2176


Central Maine Dairy

Phone: 207.453.6727


eFOTG

The electronic Field Office Tech Guide. 

This is where NRCS stores all its technical files for practice implementation. In particular, section 4 under “Conservation Practice Standards and Support Documents” has the standards for all NRCS practices.


EJPrescott (EJP)

EJP is a good resource for larger water and trash pumps.


Liquid Manure Pumps
Both companies can assist with pump sizing.

United Ag and Turf

Carries Jamesway Pumps.

Kramers Tractors

Carries GEA Houle.


Concrete and Pre-cast Products
Waste blocks are a cheap option for manure storage.

Auburn Concrete

In Augusta and Auburn, Maine

Mattingly Products (MPC)

Anson, Maine

Gagne and Sons

Belgrade, Maine


Older USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service NRCS Publications on Pond Building:

Remains a great resource. 


Maine DACF Well Data

This website gives historical data of well yields for mostly residential wells.  This is a good place to start to see if your area has a higher or lower chance of drilling a well with adequate yield.  And gives an idea of depth. 


Visit Local Farmers

They may know or have installed similar infrastructure or equipment and can help you navigate the implementation of a project. 


Information in this publication is provided purely for educational purposes. No responsibility is assumed for any problems associated with the use of products or services mentioned. No endorsement of products or companies is intended, nor is criticism of unnamed products or companies implied.

Contact Our Resource Hub Coordinators

If you don’t see what you’re looking for on the Livestock Infrastructure and Engineering Support page, just reach out — our coordinators will be happy to help and point you in the right direction.