RECOMMENDED METHODS OF MANURE ANALYSIS

Authors: PETERS, J - UNIV OF WISCONSIN-MADISON; COMBS, S - UNIV OF WISCONSIN-MADISON; HOSKINS, B - UNIVERSITY OF MAINE; JARMAN, J - MN DEPT. OF AGRICULTUR; Kovar, John; WATSON, M - OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY; WOLF, A - PENN STATE UNIVERSITY; WOLF, N - UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS

Submitted to: Agronomy Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/6/2003
Publication Date: 11/6/2003
Citation: PETERS, J., COMBS, S., HOSKINS, B., JARMAN, J., KOVAR, J.L., WATSON, M., WOLF, A., WOLF, N. RECOMMEDED METHODS OF MANURE ANALYSIS. ASA-CSSA-SSSA ANNUAL MEETING ABSTRACTS. 2003. CD-ROM. MADISON, WI.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The benefits of applying livestock manure to crops have been recognized for centuries. Nutrient composition of manure varies with a number of factors, including: animal type, bedding, feed ration, storage/handling, environmental conditions, field application method, and age of the manure. Quantifying the nutrient value of applied manure remains a complex challenge, however, this information is needed to better manage manure as a nutrient asset. Work on the development of this multi-regional publication began in 1996 following a joint meeting of regional soil testing workgroups in Raleigh, North Carolina. Earlier in that year, a sample exchange was conducted with NCR-13, SERA-6 and NEC-67 laboratories. Results from that sample exchange were presented at the Raleigh meetings and sparked interest in joining efforts to develop a manure testing manual, which could be used in all regions. The manual, which was released in March 2003, contains four main areas including: sampling, lab QA/QC, laboratory procedures, and reporting. The procedure section includes sample handling, dry matter determination, total N, ammonium N, digestion/dissolution and analytical methods for P, K, Ca, Mg, and trace elements, pH and electrical conductivity.