While spreading nutrients on fields is often associated with cropland and mechanical spreading, it is important to remember that pastures are a crop, and animals are manure spreaders. Managing nutrients appropriately in your fields will ensure your fields are adequately supplied without overspending and will also help protect the surrounding environment.
In pasture systems, overapplying nutrients can be associated with overstocking and/or poorly managing heavy use areas and manure piles. If nutrients are accumulating beyond what the soil can hold in these areas there is a risk of leaching and/or runoff, potentially negatively impacting nearby waterways. For this reason, all farmers in Vermont are required to follow the Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) of the State, linked below. One part of the RAPs requires farmers to develop nutrient management plans (NMPs) that document how nutrients are managed on their farms. Below are resources to review to ensure that your farm complies. If you need help developing or updating your NMP reach out to your local Conservation District or Extension office.
Fields lacking nutrients can also be a concern because it will lower productivity in your pastures. Regular soil tests will determine what your plants need and let you be able to use the Nutrient Recommendation Guidelines linked below to make appropriate management decisions.
- UVM Extension’s Nutrient Management Planning Course: This program provides annual training for farmers on how to develop, update, and maintain NMPs that meet state regulatory requirements. In addition, UVM Extension staff across the state and staff from local Conservation Districts provide one-on-one assistance in updating and maintaining NMPs.
- Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs): state requirements for agricultural producers concerning land and nutrient management
- Nutrient Recommendations for Field Crops in Vermont: generating nutrient recommendations for field crops based on soil test nutrient levels.