What does a manure test report provide?

A manure test report provides manure analysis results on a dry weight basis, which is critical for understanding the nutrient content and its potential application to crops. Analyzing manure on a dry weight basis allows for standardized comparisons of nutrient concentrations because it accounts for variations in moisture content. This means that regardless of how wet or dry the manure is at the time of testing, the nutrient values can be expressed consistently, making it easier for farmers to determine how much manure to apply based on their nutrient management plans and crop needs.

Without this dry weight measurement, conclusions drawn about nutrient availability and environmental impacts could be misleading due to fluctuations in moisture levels. This type of analysis is essential for assessing how the manure can effectively and safely be used as a nutrient source for crops while minimizing environmental risks.