Manure Transport & Application Category Guide

Part of Manure, Crops, and Nutrient Management

Completing the Nutrient Cycle

After collection and storage, manure must be transported to fields where its nutrients can benefit crops. The right equipment and application methods maximize nutrient value while minimizing environmental impact and neighbor complaints.

Transport Equipment

Liquid Manure

Tanker spreaders: Truck or tractor-pulled tanks with spreader applicators
Drag hose systems: Pump manure through hose to distant fields
Honey wagons: Smaller tank spreaders for limited acreage

Solid Manure

Box spreaders: Traditional conveyor-and-beater spreaders
Slinger spreaders: Vertical beater for wider throw
Side-discharge spreaders: Horizontal beater design

Application Methods

Surface Application

Broadcast spreading
Band application
Requires incorporation for odor and nutrient conservation

Injection

Subsurface placement reduces odor and ammonia loss
Better nutrient retention
Requires specialized equipment
Higher cost but improved environmental performance

Drag Hose Systems

Pump liquid manure through large-diameter hose to application equipment in the field:

Eliminates tanker traffic and soil compaction
Higher application rates possible
Significant infrastructure investment
Best for larger operations with continuous application

Custom Application

Many farms hire custom manure applicators:

Professional equipment and operators
No capital investment in equipment
Scheduling flexibility
May have waiting periods during busy seasons

Application Planning

Nutrient management plan requirements
Soil testing and application rates
Timing with crop needs
Weather and soil conditions
Setbacks and sensitive areas

Cost Considerations

Manure tankers range from $30,000-150,000+ depending on size and features. Box spreaders cost $20,000-80,000. Drag hose systems require significant investment ($100,000+) but reduce per-acre application costs. Custom application typically costs $0.01-0.03 per gallon or $15-40 per acre.