Manure isn’t just a byproduct of livestock — it’s a powerful fertilizer that can improve soil health, increase crop yields and save farmers money. This February and March, Nebraska Extension is hosting seven hands-on workshops across the state to help producers get the most value out of manure while protecting water and soil resources.
“Our workshops focus on choosing the best possible field for manure application and therefore are useful for any crop farmer utilizing manure, even though they have traditionally been attended by livestock producers,” said Leslie Johnson, Nebraska Extension’s Animal Manure Management Extension Educator. “The workshops will still meet the educational requirements for permitted livestock operations laid out by the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment’s Title 130.”
The day-long sessions, held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. local time, provide DWEE Land Application Training certification. Participants must attend the full program, which includes lunch, to earn certification. Sessions will cover regulatory updates and strategies for using manure effectively on cropland. While certification is available, anyone may attend, including crop farmers and smaller livestock operators seeking practical guidance for their operations.
Hands-on activities will help participants evaluate which fields are best suited for manure application. Each session will present a scenario in which attendees assess potential fields and determine whether manure use would be beneficial or if certain limitations make the site less desirable. Participants will then rank fields by priority based on factors such as nutrient value, transportation cost, soil health, water quality, neighbor proximity, and odor concerns. Regulations and record-keeping requirements for manure storage and application will also be covered.
Workshop Dates and Locations:
- Gothenburg — Monday, Feb. 9
- Ainsworth — Tuesday, Feb. 24
- Broken Bow — Wednesday, Feb. 25
- Bridgeport — Friday, Feb. 27
- Norfolk — Wednesday, March 4
- West Point — Thursday, March 5
- Aurora — Tuesday, March 17
Because seating is limited and meals are provided, advance registration is required at least one week before each event. Additional sessions may be added if demand is high. Registration is available online.
The cost is $100 per operation requiring certification — typically larger livestock facilities — or $25 per person for attendees not seeking certification, including smaller livestock producers, crop farmers, NRCS staff, and landlords.
The workshops are sponsored by Nebraska Extension’s Animal Manure Management Team, which works to help livestock and crop producers maximize the agronomic and environmental benefits of manure. For more information, visit the Animal Manure Management site or contact Leslie Johnson, 402-584-3818.
