Given that approximately 75% of Illinois is farmland, it is not uncommon for drivers to pass a farm and flare their nostrils at the smell of manure.
Though it may be unpleasant for passersby, manure use can be vital when it comes to aiding in plant growth.
Manure is a readily available resource for many farmers. The average dairy cow produces between 82 to 115 pounds of manure every day.
This type of waste can be used as a renewable resource saving farmers and home gardeners money. Manure works as an important source of nutrients for plants providing nitrogen and phosphorus.
When used properly, manure can be used to help fight against soil loss by increasing soil aggregate size. In other words, manure helps soil stick together, which can efficiently contribute to soil sustainability; however, manure use in open farm fields must be managed well.
Application rates must be managed so that not too much manure is used at one time, and, since manure is often applied in liquid form it should not be applied when rain is in the forecast because manure runoff can pollute waterways.
Used properly, manure is an organic fertilizer that can cut down on waste and contribute to sustainable farming.