For more details on listservs, see the June 1996 issue of Ag Connection . Improve Pasture Manure Distribution Grazing animals retain very small proportions of their total nutrient uptake. Nutrients not retained are redistributed in the feces and urine. A goal of producers should be to uniformly distribute these nutrients through grazing system design and management. Other benefits are decreased fertilizer costs and improved environmental quality.
Manure distribution is influenced by water sites, shade, and topography.
Studies have determined that manure pile concentration was three times greater near water, shade, and a mineral feeder in comparison to the rest of the pasture. Management practices can aid uniform manure distribution. Place mineral feeders and fly-wipes at sites that otherwise do not attract stock. Vary locations of supplemental feeding, both concentrates and forages, throughout the pasture. Do not provide shade on purpose.