On-line
manure management planner
Dr. Brad Joern
Purdue University
Current
needs in nutrient management include using a systems approach that integrates
feed into a CNMP, measures the degree of nutrient concentration, and identifies
a sustainable nutrient strategy. Evaluation of nutrient balances requires
identifying nutrient inputs (feed, animals, irrigation water, fertilizer, legume
N) and outputs (meat and milk, crops, manure) as well as losses and storage in
soil. Sustainable nutrient
management must correct the imbalance, not just plug the leaks. Data from Nebraska farms showing the ratio of phosphorus (P)
in to P out indicate that imbalances exist in farms of all sizes.
Analyses of phosphorus inputs indicate that the majority comes from feeds
although percentages vary depending on the animal units.
Two online spreadsheets (see http://manure.unl.edu/computer.html) provide assistance in evaluating nutrient concentrations and developing nutrient management plans. The national “Livestock and Poultry Environmental Stewardship Curriculum, ” developed with U.S. EPA Agricultural Center funding, will be a resource for those involved in manure management. The curriculum, which addresses animal dietary strategies, manure storage and treatment, land application and manure management, and outdoor air quality, will be reviewed and piloted within the next year.