Barriers to Change: Farmers' Willingness to Adopt Sustainable Manure Management Practices

Manure management is important in Michigan. There is need for better understanding of why farmers do not sustainably utilize manure nutrients. Some livestock farms could benefit if neighboring farmers used their manure. A study explored the potential for manure transfer from livestock farms to fields of neighboring farms. A mailed survey was used to collect data. Surveys were analyzed to determine frequencies of responses among respondents. Comparisons were also made between livestock and nonlivestock farmers. Results suggest neighbor complaints and odor represent significant barriers to manure exchange. Concerns about spreading weed seeds and economic issues are also significant barriers.