By Scout Nelson
Manure is more than a livestock byproduct. When managed correctly, it is a valuable fertilizer that can improve soil health, increase crop yields, and reduce input costs. To help producers use manure safely and effectively, Nebraska Extension is hosting a series of hands-on manure management workshops across the state in February and March.
These workshops are designed to support better decision making when applying manure to cropland. Participants will learn how to choose suitable fields, understand nutrient values, and reduce environmental risks while meeting regulatory requirements.
“Our workshops focus on choosing the best possible field for manure application and therefore are useful for any crop farmer utilizing manure, even though they have traditionally been attended by livestock producers,” said Leslie Johnson, Nebraska Extension’s Animal Manure Management Extension Educator. “The workshops will still meet the educational requirements for permitted livestock operations laid out by the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment’s Title 130.”
Each workshop runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. local time and includes land application training certification required for permitted livestock operations, updates on state regulations, practical manure use strategies, and lunch. Certification is not required to attend, making the workshops useful for crop producers, smaller livestock operations, landowners, and conservation professionals.
The sessions focus on real-world learning. Participants work through field scenarios and evaluate whether manure application is a good choice based on soil conditions, nutrient needs, transportation costs, water quality concerns, and record-keeping requirements. This approach helps attendees understand how to prioritize fields and gain the best agronomic and economic results.
Dates and Locations
- Gothenburg – February 9
- Ainsworth – February 24
- Broken Bow – February 25
- Bridgeport – February 27
- Norfolk – March 4
- West Point – March 5
- Aurora – March 17
Registration is required at least one week in advance, as space is limited and lunch is provided. The cost is $100 per operation needing certification and $25 per person for those attending without certification needs.
These workshops support Nebraska Extension’s goal of turning manure into an asset that benefits farms and protects the environment.
Photo Credit: pexels-binyaminmellish
Categories: Nebraska, General