Cornell University Ruminant Center (CURC) conducts cutting-edge research in dairy nutrition and metabolism, reproductive physiology, and management and genomics.

Working outdoors will always be unpredictable, and the narrow window of time when applying manure means there is less time to wait for good ground conditions. With heavy equipment and variable field environments, there are steps that can be taken to minimize damage to field during slurry application. 

Manure is the linchpin of biocircularity in dairy production systems, with the nutrients in cow manure recycled to the land to produce crops that are utilized as animal feed. 

While most of us focus on how to move manure, store it and land-apply it, there's a growing interest in what else manure can do for the dairy. One of the more intriguing ideas? Turning it into bedding.

Choosing the right bedding is essential for cow comfort, herd health and overall dairy performance. Sand is a popular choice thanks to its comfort, cleanliness and long-term affordability – especially when paired with an effective recovery and recycling program.

A major factor in operational safety in manure application is knowing what could go wrong and how to mitigate those risks. Various causes can lead to minor incidents or, at worst, a disabling injury or death. There are a few things you can do before and during a job to keep the risk of accidents low.

Sure, carbon markets are volatile. Sure, the market is theoretically best suited for a large dairy farm, even those providing manure into a community digester. But that didn’t stop Michael Crinion of Ash Grove Dairy.

While recent changes in policy and markets have added uncertainty to the economics of digesters, the technology remains a valuable option for dairies looking to improve sustainability, prepare for a carbon-conscious future and manage manure more effectively.

A dragline application system is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to move liquid manure from your storage facility to the fields. Choosing the correct equipment for your operation starts with understanding your goals and building upon them.