PRIMGHAR, Iowa — Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach 2017 manure certification program highlights difficulty with low application rates on liquid manure spreaders. Most of the manure from dairy and swine farms is applied as a liquid and is either covered immediately or knifed in to eliminate complaints about odor. There have been farmer complaints about yellow streaking in early season corn growth questioning the availability of nitrogen from liquid manure sources. The research published in December 2016 on the distribution manifolds of 9 manufacturers shows that under low application rates the distribution becomes inconsistent.
The research looked at application rates from 1,000 to 6,000 gallons per acre and 3 side-slopes that are common in Iowa. In all cases, the distribution across the tool bar was better at high application rates where the manifold is pressurized. The side-slope distribution problems were more pronounced at low application rates with the downhill knives receiving higher rates. Many of the manure application equipment had issues with maintenance of the check valves on the distribution tubes that needed cleaning or replacement prior to working properly.
With current tight margins, livestock farmers are trying to spread their manure over more acres to optimize its value. This research shows how important it is to maintain and choose equipment that will provide uniform application. The detailed information will be presented this year at manure certification meetings, which are free to all. The publication summarizing the research is AE3600 and can be downloaded from the ISU Extension Store website at: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/Product/Distribution-of-Liquid-Manure-Application.
— Kris Kohl, Ph.D., P.E., Agricultural Engineer, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
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