By Ryan Matzke, business development manager for The Maschhoffs
In today’s agricultural environment, farmers are constantly searching for ways to improve efficiency, reduce input costs, and strengthen long-term soil health. One of the most overlooked opportunities lies beneath our feet: manure.
When managed effectively, swine manure is not just a byproduct but also a valuable resource that can transform the economics and sustainability of an operation.
From Waste to Resource
Hog manure is a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and nutrient-rich resource that can enhance soil fertility, improve crop yields and reduce fertilizer costs. Unlike commercial fertilizer, it also brings added benefits such as organic matter that improves soil structure, water-holding capacity, and microbial activity. This closed-loop approach — where animal agriculture directly supports crop agriculture — offers a pathway to reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers while building healthier soils over time.
Managing Manure for Maximum Return
To unlock its full potential, manure must be managed with precision. Proper management and application are essential to maximize its benefits and minimize potential environmental impacts. Key considerations include:
• Application timing — Applying manure close to crop uptake ensures nutrients are available when plants need them most, minimizing nutrient loss.
• Application method — Incorporating manure into the soil through injection reduces odor and volatilization, while improving nutrient retention.
• Rate calibration — Balancing manure application rates with soil tests and crop nutrient needs helps avoid over-application and runoff risk.
• Record-keeping and compliance — Tracking manure use not only aids in nutrient management planning but also ensures regulatory compliance and sustainability certification opportunities.
Sustainability and Cost Savings
The economic value of manure is clear: Farmers can significantly reduce fertilizer input costs while maintaining — or even improving — yield potential.
From a sustainability perspective, manure recycling reduces dependency on fossil-fuel-based fertilizers, cuts greenhouse gas emissions and enhances soil resilience against erosion and extreme weather events. It’s a win-win for both farm profitability and environmental stewardship.
Practical Tips from the Field
Producers who have integrated swine manure into their crop rotations often highlight several lessons learned:
• Develop strong working relationships with agronomists and nutrient management planners.
• Invest in technology such as dragline systems or GPS-guided application to improve efficiency.
• Consider crop rotation impacts; corn-on-corn rotations often capture the most value from manure nutrients.
• View manure not as a challenge to manage, but as an asset to leverage for long-term farm success.
The Bigger Picture
Manure management is more than nutrient recycling; it’s a strategy that supports farm resiliency, profitability and sustainability. By seeing manure as part of a holistic nutrient management plan, farmers can close the loop between livestock and row crops, leaving healthier soils and stronger operations for the next generation.
