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. 

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Truck spreading manure

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Diagram of producers trading hay and manure
Trading crop residue bales for manure may seem like it should be a simple decision, but there are many factors that weigh into that decision, both financial and logistical in nature.

Trading Manure and Crop Residues, Considerations for a Fair Trade

September 14, 2023
Insights on how to initiate a fair trade of crop residue and manure between producers with respect to costs and logistics of the transaction for both parties.

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Tractor applying manure
By calibrating your spreader, you know precisely how much manure has been applied and can adjust your application rate as needed for optimum efficiency.

Manure Spreader Calibration is Not Just for Research Plots

August 24, 2023
Routine calibration of manure spreaders is an important step of a successful growing season and helps keep costs at a minimum. 

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