Pig manure can be an excellent source of plant nutrients including Nitrogen(N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K), according to Teagasc.

It can be used to replace much of the chemical fertiliser required to fertilise grassland and crops, and produce very substantial reductions in fertiliser costs. The use of organic manures, such as pig manure, not alone makes good economic sense for the farmer, but also is environmentally sensible in that the demand for the manufacture of chemical fertiliser will be reduced accordingly. Chemical fertiliser manufacture and transport creates significant demands on the increasingly scarce global energy supplies.

Teagasc are set to highlight pig slurry as a valuable fertiliser for grass growth. It is holding a Pig Slurry farm walk tomorrow (Friday) on the farm of John Finlay’s, Ballycuddy, Ballacolla, Co. Laois.

Speakers will include:

Stan Lalor, Researcher at Teagasc, Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford
Gerard McCutcheon, Teagasc Pig Specialist, Oak Park, Carlow
John Finlay, Host Farmer

Topics to be covered:

Nitrate regulation requirements and update
The value of pig slurry and benefits for grass growth
Nutrient value of pig slurry and associated costs
Use of Slurry for Grass Growth – Demonstration area to be viewed
This is an ideal opportunity to see the benefits and issues around using pig slurry

Click below for directions.