Manure under a microscope: What variables affect nutrient value? (hint: they all do)

Today on Advancing Nitrogen Smart we ask an unusual question: What is manure, *really*? We all know manure is made of the liquids and solids that pass through an animal's digestive system, but what has to happen for manure to become usable? Is all manure created equal, or do differences in animal type - and their feed - result in manure with variable nutrient values? How do factors like handling, storage and animal bedding impact available nutrients in manure? What are some of the long-term benefits of manure application? Is there an optimal time of year to apply manure? Brad Carlson and Melissa Wilson answer these questions and many more on this 39th episode of the Advancing Nitrogen Smart podcast. **Guests:** - Brad Carlson, Extension educator (Mankato) - Melissa Wilson, Extension manure nutrient management specialist (St. Paul) **Additional Resources:** - How to put together a manure management plan - Nitrogen availability of different manure types: What we know and what we are researching - Manure use benefits and barriers: Insights from a survey of farmers and advisors - Introducing ManureDB: A new way to view manure variability and trends - Guidelines for manure application rates \--- For the latest nutrient management information, subscribe to the Nutrient Management Podcast. And don't forget to subscribe to the Minnesota Crop News daily or weekly email newsletter, subscribe to our YouTube channel, like UMN Extension Nutrient Management on Facebook, follow us on X (formerly twitter), and visit our website. If you have questions or comments, please email us at nutmgmt@umn.edu. Advancing Nitrogen Smart is proud to be supported by the farm families of Minnesota and their corn check-off investment through Minnesota Corn.