UNL CropWatch May 6, 2011 North American Manure Expo in Norfolk July 20
May 6, 2011
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The latest advances in manure management technologies will be demonstrated July 20 at the North American Manure Expo in Norfolk. Demonstrations, educational programs, and industry booths would be of interest to livestock producers, manure handlers, consultants, and the general public.
The industry trade show and educational training event will be at the Northeast Community College Agricultural Complex in Norfolk. It’s being hosted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and other land-grant colleges in partnership with Nebraska custom manure applicators and businesses and the Iowa Commercial Nutrient Applicators Association.
The annual event travels to a new venue each year and is not likely to return to Nebraska for some time, said Leslie Johnson, project coordinator for UNL's Animal Manure Management workgroup and co-chair for the 2011 expo. Last year it was in State College, Pa. Earlier expos drew 1,200-1,500 people from across the U. S. and Canada.
"I've attended two previous expos; both were very different and informative," Johnson said. "This year will be no exception. There's something for everyone, including anyone that is concerned for the environment and wants to know how livestock producers are handling manure to avoid water contamination (whether or not they are directly involved with agriculture)."
"Professionalism in Manure Management" is the theme of this year's expo. Educational topics will include manure stockpiling, manure pit foaming and safety, center pivots for irrigating manure, and much more.
Approximately 50 exhibitors from across the U.S. and Canada will display and demonstrate all types and sizes of manure handling equipment including manure and fertilizer spreaders, manure incorporation equipment, related GPS equipment, and manure storage options.
New this year are sprinkler irrigation systems for manure application. Ride-and-drive style demonstrations will be available for those who want to get behind the wheel. All demonstrations will be held (rain or shine) on 40 acres of land next to the complex.
Also on this year’s program:
- EPA representatives will explain nutrient management plans.
- Speakers will present the latest research on winter application of manure on frozen soils.
- A panel of crop consultants will discuss how to value and market manure.
- Attendees can attend a Manure Pump School or test their knowledge at a Manure Scene Investigation.
Many sessions are expected to be approved for continuing education units for certified crop advisors.
UNL’s Mobile Computer Lab also will be there to help producers with manure related computer programs such as the P-Index (revised in 2011), the Purdue Manure Management Planner, and the National Air Quality Site Assessment Tool. Technical support will be available to answer questions on how to use the programs.
NDEQ Recertification
This event will meet recertification (not initial) training requirements from the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality for livestock operations that have a Waste Control Facility Permit. Attendees need only attend two hours of sessions to obtain their certificate.
"Regardless of your certification status or size of operation, this is an excellent learning opportunity for anyone who handles manure as a livestock producer or as a custom applicator or hauler," Johnson said.
The expo is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no cost to attend. For more information about the North American Manure Expo visit http://manureexpo.org.
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