Why can you smell manure from a distance?

You can smell manure from a distance due to the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during its decomposition. These compounds, including ammonia and hydrogen sulfide, evaporate into the air and can travel long distances, especially in the wind. Additionally, the strong odor is often intensified by environmental factors like humidity and temperature, which can enhance the dispersion of these odorous particles. As a result, even small amounts of manure can create noticeable smells over extended areas.