Liners help retain nutrients until spring by creating a waterproof barrier that stops manure or wastewater from seeping into the surrounding soil. When the ground is frozen or saturated, unlined storage structures are more likely to develop leaks, but a properly installed liner prevents nutrient-laden liquids from escaping even if the soil shifts during freeze–thaw cycles.
By keeping the stored material contained, liners preserve the fertilizer value of the manure and so that farmers can apply it when conditions are suitable for plant uptake. This protects water quality and makes nutrient management more efficient, since the material remains available for use once spring arrives.
