Manure

Tractor spreading black coal char in cattle pen — Coal char is applied to a cattle pen for research. After a snowfall, coal ash-applied pens dried quicker than the control pens, which was beneficial for cattle health.

Coal Char Enhances Manure and Soil Management to Improve Crop Production

April 11, 2024

A byproduct of processing sugarbeets, coal char has the potential to optimize soil nutrients and increase crop yields. In this article, UNL researchers share results of a study on incorporating coal char amendments into corn and dry bean cropland.

Two men sitting at table talking — Figuring out the best manure application plan for their fields are Sam Cares (left) and Lance Chandler at the recent Nebraska Extension “Manure Better” land application training. (Photo by Chabella Guzman)

‘Manure Better’ Workshop Focuses on Correct Application and its Impact

April 4, 2024

Attendees of the Manure Better workshop delved into multiple hands-on activities, from calculating and calibrating manure applications to looking at the nutrients and crop needs.

Tire tracks in muddy clay soil — Producers who struggle with poor drainage in gumbo soil have several options for improving water retention and overall soil health. One beneficial practice is manure application, which helps reduce bulk density and improves soil aggregation.

The Soil Health Exchange: Addressing Waterlogging Issues with Soil Health Management

January 30, 2024

Fields with diverse soil types can pose distinct challenges in water management, especially under pivot irrigation. In this article, UNL experts review factors that contribute to waterlogged soil and several practices that can improve drainage issues.

Manure Programming Coming to a Location Near You

January 17, 2024

Turning manure nutrients into better crop yields while protecting the environment will be the focus of seven Nebraska Extension workshops held across the state this February and March.

Manure application setbacks chart — This chart demonstrates the setbacks for applying manure in Nebraska. Producers applying manure during the winter should target level ground, well away from ditches or water bodies. (UNL Water image)

Tips for Winter Manure Application

December 15, 2023

Manure application during winter can be a difficult management decision. Consider these points while planning where, when and how to apply manure.

Nutrient management calendar banner — Nebraska Extension's nutrient management calendar includes all records required for operations permitted for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and has been approved by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE).

Nebraska Extension Releases 2024 Nutrient Record-keeping Calendar

December 13, 2023

The nutrient management calendars can help producers keep records of manure handling and the weather that affects its application on the land, as well as yield and fertility records for those fields.

Manure application in field — For producers interested in attending both extension workshops on Nov. 30, Saving by Using Manure on Crops will be immediately followed by Confronting Cropping Challenges at the Nielsen Center in West Point.

‘$aving by Using Manure on Crops’ Workshop Scheduled for Nov. 30

November 15, 2023

During this interactive workshop, participants will learn the basics of how to sample manure and soil, including how to determine available nutrients in manure and calculate manure needs for next year's crop.

Manure pile in field — Careful consideration should be given when determining stockpile placement. The above photo shows what to avoid, a pile placed directly across the road from a neighbor's driveway. While potentially a good place water quality wise, the neighbor is likely to be upset - especially if the pile stays there for more than a few days. (UNL Water photo)

Manure Stockpiles: Mind Your Manners

October 6, 2023

All manure managers should focus on reducing nuisance odor risks and preventing nutrient loss from stored manure piles.

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