By Andi Anderson
Ohio's agricultural sector faces winter challenges due to manure application regulations. Producers typically utilize dry fall weather for manure spreading. However, delays in corn harvest, caused by wetter crops and full elevators, may prompt some to consider applying manure on frozen ground.
Generally, permitted farms cannot apply manure in winter, except during extreme emergencies, where transferring it to suitable storage becomes imperative. Some commercial applicators have installed manure storage ponds to tackle this issue. Nevertheless, certain regions, like the Grand Lake St Marys (GLSM) watershed, enforce a ban on winter manure application.
The revised Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) Code 590 prohibits surface manure application on frozen or snow-covered soil statewide, except in GLSM. Limited liquid manure application during emergencies is allowed, subject to strict criteria.
Guidelines include limiting application rates, maintaining surface residue cover, applying on limited acreage, and ensuring setbacks from water bodies and wells. Solid manure farmers have options like short-term or long-term stockpiling, each with specific NRCS guidelines.
Farmers planning winter manure application in Ohio should consult their local Soil and Water Conservation District office to ensure compliance with updated regulations.
Winter approaching, Ohio's livestock producers must understand regulations and best practices for manure application. Key points: General Guidelines:
- Most producers likely completed fall manure application due to favorable weather.
- Frozen ground: Soil where manure cannot be injected or incorporated within 24 hours.
- Permitted farms: Winter manure application allowed only in extreme emergencies, with alternate storage preferred.
- GLSM watershed: Winter manure application ban: December 15th to March 1st. NRCS Code 590:
- Prohibits surface manure application on frozen/snow-covered soil statewide, except in GLSM.
- Emergency exceptions: Limited liquid manure application in strict emergencies.
Solid Manure:
- Short-term stockpiling: Max storage time: 180 days. Follow NRCS 318 standards.
- Long-term stockpiling: Storage over 180 days, requiring a permanent location and specific construction per NRCS 313.
Rules and best practices vary, so always check with your local Soil and Water Conservation District office for accurate guidance. By adhering to these guidelines, livestock producers ensure responsible manure application, preserving the environment.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic
Categories: Ohio, Crops, Livestock