After spreading manure, it is recommended that you disc (incorporate) it as soon as possible--within 24 hours. This will reduce odor concerns and conserves the nitrogen that would otherwise be lost to the atmosphere. This will also reduce the runoff of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, and organic matter in case of rainfall. Disking does have the disadvantage of reducing residue cover creating a potential for later soil and nutrient losses.
Whenever manure is spread on a field, the amount of nutrients being applied should be estimated and commercial (purchased) fertilizer applications reduced accordingly. For more information on making these calculations see Nutrient Management. A fact sheet developed especially for smaller farms is Nutrient Management-Simplified!.
Manure should not be applied near wells, streams, ponds, sinkholes, or other areas where there is a potential risk of water contamination. The recommended distance will vary from state to state, but 100 feet will generally be a good starting point.
Many options exist for immediately incorporating slurry manure into the soil during application. Similar options are now available for solid manures. Some of these equipment options also conserve residue cover. Immediate incorporation using methods to conserve residue is generally the ideal option.
Jill Heemstra, University of Nebraska
