Manure happens. It can be a useful crop nutrient resource that builds soil health when used properly or an environmental hazard when mismanaged. Our research group is interested in helping farmers maximize the benefits of animal manure through nutrient management planning while protecting water quality. Our current projects focus on two broad aspects: finding alternative windows of opportunity to apply manure into growing crops and filling knowledge gaps about nutrient cycling in manure as technologies and manure handling systems change.
Manure is like a multivitamin mixed with a probiotic for your soil. But too much of a good thing can be a bad thing, so don't overdo it!