People are looking for manure. Odd as that may sound, the fact is that the rise in fertilizer prices, now touching $1000 a ton, has prompted farmer to once again look at the manure as a fertilizing agent for their crops. Although manure can be difficult to handle and is covered by cumbersome regulation governing its storage, transport and use, economics has once again made it popular. 

Fresh dairy and beef manure contains significant amounts of both nitrogen and phosphorus, both of which are common chemical fertilizer ingredients. While the exact amount may vary depending on the species and the way the manure is managed, it is a valuable resource. 

Besides the fertilizing effects of manure, its high organic content and composting properties improves soil qualities and also the land’s ability to retain water. However, manure cannot be used at all times for all crops. A great deal depends on the chemical composition of the manure. For example, manure with high nitrogen content cannot be used in soil that itself is high in nitrogen compounds. But used strategically, it is a great benefit to farmers in terms of cost and good for the soil on which it is used. 
Another factor that needs to be taken into account is the cost of spreading the manure, which requires equipment different than that used for chemical fertilizers. However, with the increase in the use of manure, the production of this equipment will increase, leading to a reduction in costs. 

Manure trading has also become big business. Historically manure was moved and exchanged in a area that was limited. It is now feasible to ship manure long distances. Manure brokerage companies have come into existence who will remove the manure in exchange for being able to keep it and then transport and sell it in areas where it is in demand. Some farmers who do not use the manure available to them sell what they have to commercial nurseries and commercial compost manufacturing companies. 

Another application of manure is its use to produce bio-gas that is used to generate electricity or for heating applications on the farms.