Low Emission Slurry Spreading

Low Emision Slurry Spreading (LESS) Background:

Nitrogen is lost in the form of ammonia from slurry when they come into contact with air therefore we require measures that reduce ammonia emissions and in turn improve nutrient management which will reduce the bill on manufactured fertilisers. We soon expect that slurry will be spread solely using LESS techniques.

What are the benefits?

• We can increase the N value by roughly 3 units/1,000 gallons by switching from the Splash Plate to LESS.
• Reduced contamination of swards allowing for faster return to grazing.
• We can apply slurry to larger covers of grass.

Low Emission Slurry Spreading Equipment:

Dribble Bar/Band Spreader:

• Pipes deposit slurry onto crop situated below the pipes.

Trailing Shoe:

• Used in tall grass covers.
• Shoe is attached at base of the pipes and can separate the sward canopy applying slurry at the soil surface.

Shallow Injection:

• Slits cut into the soil where the slurry is then deposited.
• This would be the best method for reducing ammonia losses as spoken about.
• However this method would not be the most suitable to Irish farmers as soil has variability in stone content and texture.
• Requires greater tractor power.

Umbilical systems:

• Requires 2 tractors. One operating the pump at the slurry storage tank pumping the slurry via a flexible pipe to the application unit in the field (second tractor).
• Reduces compaction and can carry slurry 1km or more.

Grants:

All of the above are available under TAMS investments.

The maximum amount of investment eligible for grant-aid under the Scheme is €40,000 per holding. However, in the case of a joint application by two or more eligible partners under a registered partnership, the maximum eligible investment ceilings referred to above shall be increased to €60,000.

In order to qualify for grant aid at 60% applications in respect of LESS investments from qualifying Young Farmers must be submitted under the Young Farmer Capital Investment Scheme.

We can complete a grant application through our agency.

For further information on this contact Shane on 087 2310357 or click the contact link below.

Contact