Optimize nutrient management and enhance crop productivity.
Overview
Crucial for effective manure utilization, soil and manure testing ensures the right nutrients are present, maximizing yields and minimizing costs.
Reference: NRCS CEMA 217: Soil and Source Testing for Nutrient Management
Environmental Impact
- Adherence to the manure management plan
- Optimized nutrient application
- Reduced risk of nutrient runoff
- Improved soil health
Greenhouse Gas Reduction
Estimated Cost
Scenario Unit: Acres
Scenario Typical Size: 40 acres
Total Cost/Unit: $1,781.47/acre
Reference: NRCS Practice Standard and Scenario: CPS 590 Nutrient Management Scenario #353 – Nutrient Management: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2024-11/fy25-wa-scenarios.pdf, p. 1106.
Financial Considerations
Cost Savings: By starting or increasing soil and manure testing, dairy farms can achieve both immediate and long-term cost savings through more efficient nutrient management and improved productivity.
Timeline
Short
Dependency / Prerequisite
Prerequisite:
Establish a baseline by conducting initial soil and manure tests. This data will provide insight into current nutrient levels in the soil and manure, which is critical for informed decision-making.
Dependency:
Soil and Manure Testing must be completed before implementing Nutrient Management Plans.