Harvest has taken off in recent weeks as crops are quickly drying down. The open fields are tempting manure applicators to get started on their manure applications; however, it is worthwhile to pause and consider the fertilizer value that is given up when manure is applied to warm soils.
What is the value and cost of manure?
The time for fall application of anhydrous ammonia and manure is approaching, but we may not be there yet. This blog has a few things to keep in mind this fall and links to some good references.
With rising fertilizer prices, and concerns about possible shortages, it pays to time our applications of anhydrous ammonia and manure well. When the value is high, the focus on management is even more important.
Anhydrous costs are reported to have risen to $850 or more per ton.
By Angela Rieck-Hinz, Department of Agronomy and Daniel Andersen, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
The wet spring has raised many concerns about manure management for Iowa crop and livestock farmers. The following is a quick list of issues and possible responses to the issues. Farmers are encouraged to contact their local ISU Extension and Outreach ag engineer, field agronomist or livestock specialist, or the local DNR field office for additional information and assistance.
Commercial manure applicators can attend three hours of training on Thursday, Jan. 6, 2011, to meet annual commercial manure applicator certification requirements.
Planning fall fertilization activities should include giving consideration to soil sampling, and application of phosphorus and potassium, nitrogen, and manure.
For producers using conservation tillage or no-till, it's important that every field operation leaves the maximum amount of residue cover on the soil surface. As a reminder, conservation tillage is defined as any tillage practice that would leave a residue cover over the soil surface of at least 30 percent or more.
