EVALUATING EFFICACY OF MANURE APPLICATION WITH NEAR-INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY (NIRS) NUTRIENT SENSING TECHNOLOGY

Project goal is to assess the efficacy and benefits of using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) manure nutrient sensing technology during manure applications to guide stakeholders in making science-based decisions on manure land application technology adoption. Specific objectives include (i) evaluate differences in manure application rates, soil nutrient levels, and crop yield in fields managed with in-field NIRS nutrient prediction technology verses conventional manure sampling and application methods, (ii) develop extension materials on NIRS nutrient prediction technology to provide stakeholders with performance data, limitations, and system integration so they can make informed decisions on technology adoption and use, and (iii) develop materials for policymakers to assess the potential of NIRS manure nutrient prediction technology for use in reporting manure nutrient characterization and application.