‘Manure: Your Fertilizer Source Workshop’ Slated for November 29

11-01-2016 in Events

Experts to share ways to lower input costs and maximize nutrient value of manure

WEST DES MOINES, IOWA – November 1, 2016 – The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF) is hosting a workshop designed to help livestock farmers maximize the nutrient value of the manure they apply to their fields on November 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Carrollton Inn in Carroll.

“More and more farmers today are using manure as an organic nutrient for their crops as part of their precision management program. The “Manure: Your Fertilizer Source Workshop” is designed to help farmers take a proactive approach to manure management and help them lower their input costs while ensuring the sustainability of their farm and the environment,” said CSIF’s Executive Director Brian Waddingham. “In today’s marketplace, this could mean the difference between making a profit or experiencing a loss.”

The event will feature a dynamic line-up of speakers, including Matt Lechtenberg, Water Quality Coordinator for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, who will kick off the event by addressing the issue of water quality and its relationship to livestock production in Iowa. Other speakers include Abe Sandquist with Natural Fertilizer Services, who will offer insight on making basic manure calculations, application rates and composting manure. Chris Gruenhagen with the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation will explain the new 200A manure regulations that apply to farmers buying and selling manure. Dan Andersen with Iowa State University will explain how to put a dollar value on manure, how to offset commercial fertilizer costs with manure, and timing application to maximize nutrient utilization. Jim Friedericks with Ag Source Laboratories will provide insight into calculating application rates and calibrating manure spreaders, and will explain how manure type and storage can affect the nutrient value. Diane Ercse, with the Iowa Soybean Association will discuss practices livestock farmers have implemented in the Elk Run Watershed in Carroll county to improve water quality. Kent Mowrer with the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers will highlight resources that are available to livestock farmers to better manage their manure application and provide tips for how they can improve neighbor relations.

Registration, including a complimentary lunch, is free if completed by November 25. For more information and to register, visit www.supportfarmers.com or call 1-800-932-2436. Space is limited.

The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers was created by farmers to help farmers raise livestock successfully and responsibly. It’s a joint partnership involving the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Egg Council, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Turkey Federation and Midwest Dairy Association.

The non-profit, non-partisan organization provides assistance to farmers at no cost. CSIF does not lobby or develop policy. Farm families wanting a helping hand can contact the coalition at 1-800-932-2436.

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