With nearly two feet of snow on the ground, proper winter manure application seems like a timely topic of discussion.

Because of the impact nitrogen and phosphorus can have on the environment, care must be taken when applying to snow-covered or frozen ground. Potassium, while low in environmental impact, has a high impact when factoring in the cost to replace this lost nutrient with potash.

Because of the extremely high runoff potential and the lack of plant uptake, manure shouldn't be spread on snow covered or frozen ground, but those with limited or no storage capabilities still have to deal with manure on a daily basis.

However, a little planning months before the first snowflake falls will help lessen the environmental impact.

If application to snow-covered or frozen ground is required, large setbacks of 200 to 300 feet from wells, springs and water bodies should be maintained and application should be limited to the flattest fields possible. But there are times when weather conditions will not permit spreading on the ideal field and the field right behind the barn is the only option.

By starting with the fields farthest from the barn and working back, you should be spreading on fields closest to the farm when the worst of winter hits. Another option is to in-field stack the manure, which is permitted up to 120 days. This is an excellent choice when the field you want to spread on is too close to a stream, too wet or too snow covered to safely apply manure.

Care should be taken when stacking. In-field sites should be several hundred feet from water sources and be placed on a soil that is neither extremely well drained or has the potential for a high water table.

Ultimately, the best way to manage your manure is through the implementation of a nutrient management plan. The plan will describe application rates, which fields to apply to and locate in-field stacking areas.

Our office offers help developing these plans and typically covers the total cost of the plan. We also offer incentives to construct manure storage and stacking structures to help deal with winter manure issues.

Producers interested in learning more about what the Natural Resources Conservation Service has to offer in the way of winter manure handling should contact our office.

Andy Gaver is a conservationist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Butler County.