With soil pores continuously filled with water this time of year, Penn State Extension says applying manure increases the risk of runoff.

The total phosphorus content in manure varies depending on the animal species, age, diet and how the manure has been stored.

Manure is a valuable asset to livestock farmers who grow crops.

Some producers are taking advantage of frozen ground conditions to apply nitrogen to wheat fields or manure to corn fields. While this practice reduces the risk of compaction or rutting of fields, there are other factors to consider. Applications to frozen ground are at higher risk for runoff and loss of those nutrients.

Consider these risk factors and management practices when selecting fields for winter manure application.

Poultry litter can provide a significant and important supply of nutrients for crop production in areas where a supply of litter is available. Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma rank among the largest producers of poultry in the U.S.