Manure Nutrient Management-Improving Nitrogen Efficiency

By Scout Nelson

Manure provides valuable nutrients for crop production, but managing those nutrients is often more complex than using commercial fertilizer. A recent University of Minnesota Extension podcast explores the factors that affect manure nutrient availability and how producers can improve nitrogen management while reducing nutrient losses.

Unlike manufactured fertilizers, manure contains nutrients in varying forms and concentrations. Nutrient levels can differ based on livestock species, animal diets, storage systems and bedding materials, making it more challenging to predict nitrogen availability throughout the growing season.

The podcast features Brad Carlson, an Extension educator, and Melissa Wilson, a University of Minnesota Extension manure nutrient management specialist. They discuss why manure management requires a more detailed approach and examine factors that influence nitrogen availability in agricultural systems.

One of the key topics is the impact of livestock species on manure nutrients. Differences in animal digestion and feeding programs can affect nutrient composition, causing manure from different livestock operations to supply nitrogen at varying rates.

The discussion also highlights the role of bedding materials and manure handling practices. These factors can influence nutrient concentrations and decomposition rates, affecting how quickly nutrients become available to crops.

Nitrogen loss remains a major concern when manure is left on the soil surface. Significant nutrient losses can occur through volatilization, reducing fertilizer value and potentially affecting crop performance.

The podcast also examines methods for evaluating crop nitrogen status after application. Late-season testing can help producers determine whether crops received adequate nitrogen and guide future nutrient management decisions.

In addition to the podcast, University of Minnesota Extension offers educational resources on manure management planning, nitrogen availability, manure variability and best practices for manure application. These resources help producers improve nutrient efficiency, reduce environmental impacts and maximize the value of manure as a fertilizer source.

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