Manure application BMPs and rules

Early fall brings renewed activity on the farm. Corn silage harvest is wrapping up, and grain harvest has begun or will start soon. Fertilizer and manure applications in preparation for next crop will follow shortly.

For me, fall isn’t complete without a few interesting questions about manure management and best management practices (BMPs). These questions and concerns come from livestock facility managers, crop managers, neighbors and others. A quick overview of general BMPs and high-level overview of manure application regulations seems timely.

Manure is a valuable source of nutrients, minerals and organic matter for next year’s crops. Late fall can be a good time to apply manure — the nutrients will be in the soil, ready for crop uptake. And pulling from storages now helps ensure adequate manure storage capacity over the winter.

Here are some BMPs farmers can use to maximize the benefits and minimize negative environmental impacts.

• Develop and use a nutrient management plan.

• Apply manure at agronomic rates.

• Incorporate manure immediately to reduce ammonium losses.

• Apply when soil temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Be aware of wind direction during application.

• Observe setback distances: 150 feet from wells and 200 feet from surface water.

• Incorporate or injection manure within one-quarter mile of nonfarm residence,

• Keep records of application rates, locations, and timing.

Agronomic rates refer to applying manure based on the nitrogen and phosphorous needs for the upcoming crop. This is a key component of a nutrient management plan: knowing the nutrient content of a specific manure source and apply at rates to meet the crop needs within a specific field.

Immediate incorporation is loosely defined as incorporation within 24 hours. Direct injection of liquid manure is preferable, as nutrient losses start immediately after application. Sooner is better! Applying manure when soil temperatures are below 50 degrees further reduces nitrogen loss potential through leaching and runoff. At these cooler temperatures, microbial conversion of ammonium to nitrate slows significantly.

Wind awareness can be another proactive practice. Odors can be carried downwind to off-farm neighbors, so adjusting application plans based on wind direction and speed can help with neighbor relations. Also, informing neighbors of upcoming application plans can help create positive awareness instead of negative reactions.

The Livestock Management Facilities Act and its associated regulations govern most manure management and application rules in Illinois. While much of the act deals with facilities and manure storages, application rules can be found in 510 ILCS 77/1 Section 20. Key items for everyone: Apply at agronomic rates and observer the setbacks listed above.

A final thought: While manure is considered a waste product from the livestock side, it’s a valuable resource for crop production. It becomes truly a waste product only if handled improperly and not treated as a resource.

Stanley (Jay) Solomon Jr. is a University of Illinois Extension natural resources, environment, and energy educator serving Jo Daviess, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties.