I’ve been doing some research on manure sampling protocols lately. I was surprised at how vague a lot of the information is. The best guidelines I’ve found so far are from the University of Wisconsin – Extension in their PDF Recommended Methods of Manure Analysis.
Since I’m primarily interested in agitated liquid manure analysis here are some of the pointers I’ve picked up so far:
- Ask the laboratory doing the analysis if they have any specific sample handling instructions
- Make sure the manure is well agitated prior to sampling (2-4 hours of agitation)
- Take three to five composite samples for laboratory analysis
- For each sample collect three to five grab samples in a clean plastic bucket, then mix and pour a subsample into the laboratory’s sample container
- The grab samples should be collected from the hose as the manure is being pumped
- Samples should be frozen or kept cold and away from the light while awaiting transport to the laboratory
- Be sure to clearly label samples (date, operation identifier)
I’m still researching this so expect updates or amendments as time goes on.
{ 1 } Trackback
[...] that they vary quite widely. The only way to know what the situation is for your operation is to test the manure by taking samples over a number of years. Posted by jtone on Monday, November 23, 2009, at 2:32 PM. Filed under [...]
Post a Comment