Debunking winter manure

Continued from page 8

Some farmers believe that spreading in the winter when the ground is frozen reduces the potential for soil compaction by heavy manure spreaders or liquid tankers. That’s not actually the case, because although the soil’s top layers are frozen, the ground underneath is not and will still suffer the impacts of compaction.

Negative public reaction

The public eye is focused on farmers more strongly now than ever before. Manure spreading in the winter can attract unwanted attention and make farmers an easy target – even though there are many contributors to the phosphorus problem.

Most Ontario farmers are actively taking steps to avoid winter spreading.

Those most likely to spread manure in the winter don’t have enough manure storage on the farm, or were unable to empty liquid manure tanks before the ground froze because of wet fall weath- er.

There is no single practice that will address all issues or serve as a solution on every farm, but here are some key ideas:

- Plan ahead: know how much manure storage you have and be prepared in case spreading in the fall isn’t possible.

- Expand storage: Cover or expand your existing on-farm manure storage. Temporary in-field storage can be a solution for solid manure.

- Change your crop rotation: add winter wheat or cover crops to your rotation for extra manure spreading opportunities throughout the year.

More information about manure stewardship and long-term nutrient management options is available at https:// www.farmfoodcareon.org/timing-matters/.

This article is provided by Farm & Food Care Ontario as part of the Timing Matters project. The project is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

Maple Syrup products available all year-round. Help us celebrate Maple Weekend, the first weekend in April. We are offering tours which include the bush and our facility. Check out our website to book your tour.

We have something new coming May 2022. Introducing Hoover’s Maple experience. Check out the details on our website. Participants have raved about this ‘sweet’ experience.

If you would like a tour of our facility outside of Maple Weekend, March is Maple Month at Hoover’s so we’d be happy to show you around. Check out our website to book a tour.

Remember Maple Syrup is an ingredient, not just a topping - check out our maple cookbook to try new healthy meals and some sweet treats.

We produce Certified Organic, Award winning Maple Syrup.