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.

From Ballacolla:
At the crossroads in the village take the Borris-on- Ossory Road.
Travel 4km (2.5 miles) out the Borris-on-Ossory road – going over the motorway twice. Turn right at ‘Hand’ crossroads. Travel down this road 1.5km (0.9 mile).
Take the right turn when you go over the motorway a third time. See farm on RHS and park along the road there.

From Borris-On- Ossory
Turn left after Aghaboe Priory. Travel that road 1.5km (0.9) mile and when you travel over the motorway turn right. See farm on the RHS and park safely along the road there.