If you already have a field numbering system with your conservation plan, use that system. Some portions of a given field identified to receive wastes may not be covered by the waste application equipment being used. This is true of irrigation systems on irregularly shaped fields. So, field identification should include a layout of the actual area within the field that receives livestock wastes. Since many items, such as crops grown, yield records and manure applied, change from year to year, it is important that these items be recorded annually.
Past experiences can be a basis for present and future decisions.
Crop grown The type of crop grown on a waste-receiving area provides a basis for estimating needs. Record fertilizer nutrients, manure application and subsequent nutrient availability such as occurs when nitrogen is available following a legume crop. Planting and harvesting dates should be noted, also. Crop yield Crop yield, or amount removed from the field, is very important in developing a fertility program and nutrient application strategies. Yield directly influences the amount of nutrients removed from a field, which influences the amount of nutrients needed for the next crop.