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IN workshop: Get the scoop on poultry litter use

January 13, 2015, Indianapolis, IN — Poultry producers and other farmers who use poultry litter should attend the “MANURE: Managing All Nutrients by Using Resources Efficiently” workshop on February 2 in Loogootee, Ind., to learn how to get the most out of manures as fertilizers and understand state regulations on manure.

The workshop will run from 8:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the Martin County Fairgrounds.

Several speakers will provide a thorough look at the different aspects of poultry litter application and its place in a cropping system. Dr. Brad Joern (Purdue University), who specializes in soil chemistry and crop nutrient management planning, will share how to improve the efficiency of manure and nutrients used on an operation. Barry Fisher (United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service) will discuss how to incorporate manures in a complete management system. Mark Anson (Anson Family Farms) will provide a firsthand perspective as a farmer who has used cover crops and poultry litter on his operation.

“Don’t be put-off by the topic of the workshop – manure is exciting to the farmers we work with who recognize the many benefits it holds for their operation. Whether they are interested in building up soil organic matter on their land or simply consider it a financial home run, they are looking for ways to efficiently incorporate manure into their management systems,” explained Lisa Holscher, the soil health program manager for the Indiana Association of Soil and Water Districts and the Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative.

PARP credits and Certified Crop Advisor CEUs (1.0 SW, 1.0 NM) have been requested. Advance registration for the event is required by January 28 and the event cost is $5.00 (which includes lunch and light refreshments). For those seeking PARP credits, please bring your private applicator card and an additional $10.00 in check or cash to the event. Registration can be completed online at www.ManureHappens.eventbrite.com or by calling the Martin County Soil and Water Conservation District at (812) 295-3149. The Martin County Fairgrounds is located at 2666 US Highway 50 in Loogootee.

The workshop has been organized by the Martin County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), along with the Daviess, Dubois, Knox, and Orange County SWCDs, the United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS), Purdue Extension, the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, the Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative (CCSI), the Lost River Watershed Project, and the Patoka River Watershed Project. These partners are equal opportunity providers and accommodations for those who need them will be provided; simply contact the SWCD at (812) 295-3149 at least 10 days prior to the event.