What is the primary purpose of manure testing?

The primary purpose of manure testing is to analyze nutrient concentrations in manure. This analysis is essential because understanding the nutrient levels, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, enables farmers and nutrient management professionals to make informed decisions about how to best use manure as a fertilizer. By identifying these nutrient concentrations, they can enhance crop growth while minimizing environmental impacts, such as nutrient runoff into water bodies.

Testing manure not only informs the proper application rates but also ensures that the nutrients align with the needs of the crops being grown. This practice helps optimize fertilizer management plans, leading to more sustainable agricultural practices. While knowing the type of manure, its odor, and moisture content can be relevant, the core function of testing revolves around understanding nutrient content, making it the most critical aspect in terms of effective nutrient management.