Make slurry spreading a priority as closed period looms

The permitted period for slurry spreading will end on September 30 this year and farmers are reminded to make every effort to have their tanks emptied before this date.

Better weather over recent days has allowed ground conditions to improve, making the task of slurry spreading possible on many farms again; farmers should avail of these conditions now rather than delaying until closer to the closing date.

Not only will applying the slurry now guarantee that tanks are emptied before stock return indoors for the winter housing period, the nutrients contained within will be applied to a growing grass plant, thus reducing the risk of nutrient losses and providing valuable organic fertilisers to help boost autumn grass supplies.

The latter is vital as results from the recently released Teagasc National Fodder Survey have shown that over 75% of farms that are actively recording data on PastureBase Ireland are significantly behind target for average farm cover to support autumn grazing on farm. Additionally, it reported that only 54% of respondents had slurry tanks emptied at this point, further heightening the need for farmers to take the opportunities in the coming days to get slurry nutrients to the most suitable parts of the farm.

For farmers planning on spreading slurry in the coming days, Environment Specialist at Teagasc, Tim Hyde offered the following advice: “Ground conditions are improving and the weather forecast for the week ahead is promising, so there is an opportunity on many farms to spread slurry before the new closed period for slurry starts.

“The last day to spread slurry is September 30, so why wait and get it out now to maximise nutrient uptake and grass growth. Grass growth predictions for this week are 40-55kg DM/ha/day, thus making the best use of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in slurry before grass growing conditions slow down.”

On the importance of maintaining buffer zones, he added: “No spread buffers when spreading slurry along waterbodies and drains are 10m from September 15. Why not leave 15m to be on the safe side to ensure less run-off to water - let’s all do our bit for water quality.”

Also read: Fodder survey: 18% of farmers have a deficit of greater than 10%