Essential safety tips for early fall manure application and removal

By Andi Anderson

As fall approaches, many farmers must decide the right timing for manure application. According to Daniel Andersen, professor and extension agricultural engineering specialist at Iowa State University, applying manure when temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for nitrogen retention. However, early applications may sometimes be necessary due to foam in manure pits or limited storage space.

“While it’s preferable to wait, there are situations when applying manure earlier is unavoidable,” said Andersen. “Safety should always be the primary consideration when handling early manure applications.”

One of the best ways to maintain safety is by removing and agitating manure when barns are empty. This allows for more thorough mixing, reducing solids and preventing harmful gases from affecting workers and animals.

Foam in manure pits is a significant safety concern. It traps dangerous gases, such as methane, which increases the risk of explosion. Andersen recommends taking action when foam exceeds 6 inches.

Managing foam is most effective when the barn is empty, allowing for aggressive agitation to release trapped gases safely. During this process, ventilation is essential to prevent methane buildup and mitigate potential hazards.

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is another dangerous gas that can be released during manure agitation. This gas is lethal in high concentrations, especially when manure has settled for long periods.

When solids are disturbed during agitation, H₂S can be released in large quantities, posing a severe risk. Andersen emphasizes the importance of high ventilation and turning off any ignition sources during this process.

Farmers can also consider using pit treatments to reduce foam and reset the microbial population in manure pits, preventing foam from becoming a recurring issue. Such treatments can be an effective preventive measure for long-term manure management.

For more safety information, Andersen recommends referring to the publication “Hydrogen Sulfide Safety – Manure Agitation (AE3604)”, which offers detailed guidelines on protecting both humans and livestock during manure agitation.

Prioritizing safety is critical during early fall manure removal, ensuring a safe environment for both farm workers and animals while maintaining effective manure management practices.