The use of animal composts and manure in farming systems are often by- passed by farmers for more easier options, as they are often difficult to source and apply to large areas.
But many farmers are being resourceful and realize the benefits to not only the final sale product but to the soil fertility and structure. Such farmers also see improved health of the plant crops and the ecosystem.
In the past use of animal manure was often the main source of fertilizer until the introduction of inorganic varieties. With the introduction of mechanical plowing and other soil management systems, the fertility and structure of the soil has broken down and farmers have become reliant on the use of herbicides, fertilizers and pesticides etc to manage their crops.
Now days with all the concern over the environment, farmers are looking for cheaper and more economical methods to get their crop to the market with less input costs. By using home grown waste, such as on mixed farms, where crops are grown with livestock, use of animal waste products can make the farm more productive. Worm farming on site is a great option where the animal manure is used in worm farm systems and the castings used to make liquid fertilizers to spray over crops. Elevated worm farms give off a liquid that can easily be applied to crops. So farmers who use innovative ideas with animal manures can not only produce systems that improve the fertility and structure of the soil but increase their profits as well.
Check out some of the good ideas and systems that are being introduced around the world:-
https://wastemanagementreview.com.au/compost-in-agriculture-a-good-news-story/
https://resource-recycling.com/recycling/2023/11/13/epa-grants-accelerate-organics-reuse-systems/