Biodiversity and nitrogen reduction require a systematic approach
Commissioned by the Flemish Land Agency (VLM), INBO, ILVO and Ghent University conducted a literature study to identify the effects of alternatives to manure injection. Manure injection involves applying liquid manure directly into the soil via trenches using a machine. The alternatives investigated included various spreading techniques and the treatment of mixed manure. The use of farmyard manure or compost and the cultivation of grass clover were also examined. The study shows that no single technique or alternative minimises all environmental problems simultaneously under all circumstances.
The key message is that we should not focus solely on a single technique. To really limit nitrogen losses and preserve biodiversity where possible, an integrated approach by the farmer works best. It's all about the big picture: the quality of the manure, a well-thought-out feed ration for the livestock, careful soil management and precise timing. In short, a farmer who optimises his entire farming system — by focusing on more grazing, grass clover, good carbon build-up and the use of lighter machinery at the right times — achieves more for biodiversity and reducing nitrogen losses than someone who focuses solely on technology.
Karoline D’Haene (ILVO), Kurt Sannen, Georges Hofman (UGent)
Read more: Het effect van alternatieven van mestinjectie op stikstofverliezen en biodiversiteit bij grasland
Image above: manure injection (Shutterstock)