Stored manure is packed with nutrients, but it can also contain some unwanted elements. This includes garbage, which will eventually be scattered across crop fields. In a recent University of Nebraska Extension article, extension educator Leslie Johnson offered advice on how to keep trash out of manure.

“We all know that a good, clean manure application is important for soil health, crop performance, and even how our operation looks to others,” she wrote. “But getting there takes more than just spreading what’s in the pit or pile.”

Johnson said it starts with the feed source. A big culprit of garbage in manure is baler twine and net wrap. While it is faster to just grind a whole bale without removing the twine or wrap, when those materials get into the feed mixer, they end up in the feedbunk. Not only is this a health hazard for the livestock eating that feed, but the leftover twine or wrap often ends up in manure. It can damage application equipment and will eventually be spread across the field. This can make the farm look messy, and it can also harm wild animals that eat the plastic, leading to injury or death.

“Take an extra minute to remove that wrap or twine properly,” she advised. “It’s a small step with a big impact.”

Johnson also recommended setting aside time for regular pen inspections. Look for dropped gloves, lost ear tags, windblown feed sacks, or broken tools that got left behind.

She also touched on proper mortality management. If not composted properly, bone and tissue from decomposing animals that end up in manure pits can clog up pumps and spreaders.

“When manure is clean, equipment runs smoother, spreader beaters are less likely to jam, and hoses don’t plug as often,” she noted. Foreign objects in manure are not just a risk to manure equipment; materials left in the field can get wrapped around balers, planters, or combines during the next harvest season, slowing progress during a busy time of year.

“A little bit of maintenance up front saves a lot of frustration down the road,” Johnson summarized. Prevent breakdowns and future messes by keeping manure clean.

This article appeared in the November 2025 issue of Journal of Nutrient Management on page 9.

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