Nutrient Management When Spreading Manure

Manure can also be used as a fertilizer (N and P) for crops. In addition. the organic matter present in manure can improve both tilth and the water-holding capacity of soil. However, if there is insufficient land to use the amount of manure that is produced or if manure is mismanaged, then risks to water supplies and the environment could result.

1. Apply manure with the highest N content in the spring or fall and with the lowest in the summer.
2. Match manure value to crop yield potential. Match high N manure with crops with a high N requirement; and high P manure to soils with the lowest P levels.
3. If manure is spread on pastures grazed by livestock, pastures can be infected with parasites.