Using Dragline for Manure Application

There is a growing trend that’s been catching on in the farming community – the use of dragline systems for manure application.

With the demand on the rise, many custom manure haulers have invested in this equipment, making it available in various areas. And we have also been fielding a lot of calls from farmers wanting to learn how to do this themselves. Want to know more? Call us at 517-458-9741 or email us at info@triplekirrigation.com.

Manure spreaders:

In parts of the country, this spring’s cool, wet weather has caused delays in fieldwork, leaving us with wetter-than-desired soil conditions. This could be the perfect season to give drag line manure application a try.

One of the major perks of using a drag line is that it eliminates the need for those heavy manure tankers. Even if those tankers have floatation tires, their weight can really compact the soil, especially when we’re forced to apply during less-than-ideal conditions due to wet weather. Using a drag line system helps reduce this compaction risk.

Drag line operations are also more efficient. With the drag line, many operators have enough hose to pump manure as far as 3 miles from the storage. A big pump at the storage is usually controlled by the operator in the application rig. This means you can keep applying for longer periods without the hassle of running back to refill the tank after each load. So, you get more manure applied in a shorter weather window.

And here’s a road safety bonus: not having to run back to the storage after every load. This is a big deal in the congested traffic areas. It also saves us from wasting time stuck in slow traffic jams.

Now, when it comes to the drag line system, there are typically two types of application units. One option is a toolbar with multiple splatter plates, which allows for your typical surface application.

There’s a growing interest in manure incorporation. Years of surface application can lead to a buildup of high phosphorus levels in the top inch or two of soil, which can result in increased runoff of manure into our surface waters. Today’s incorporation equipment allows us to inject manure a few inches below the surface with minimal soil disturbance. This captures most of the conservation benefits of no-till while also reducing environmental concerns caused by phosphorus buildup at the soil surface. Plus, you can easily combine the drag line system with an injection unit to enjoy the best of both worlds.

The drag line system can be a game-changer for many farmers. It’s efficient, reduces compaction, enhances road safety, and offers the flexibility to incorporate manure effectively. This season, why not give it a shot and see the benefits firsthand?

Want to learn more? Call us at 517-458-9741 or email us at info@triplekirrigation.com.

Here are links to a couple of other interesting articles.