WEBVTT 00:00:10.430 --> 00:00:13.689 Welcome to the Bullvine Podcast, the boldest 00:00:13.689 --> 00:00:16.550 voice in dairy farming innovation. I'm your host, 00:00:16.649 --> 00:00:19.329 bringing you cutting edge insights that challenge 00:00:19.329 --> 00:00:22.050 conventional wisdom and drive industry progress. 00:00:22.469 --> 00:00:25.750 On today's episode, we're diving deep into the 00:00:25.750 --> 00:00:28.359 world of dairy farming. to explore strategies, 00:00:28.699 --> 00:00:31.760 innovations, and opportunities that can transform 00:00:31.760 --> 00:00:34.259 your operation. From breakthrough management 00:00:34.259 --> 00:00:37.539 techniques to market analysis that matters, The 00:00:37.539 --> 00:00:40.119 Bullvine delivers content that's both provocative 00:00:40.119 --> 00:00:43.659 and practical. Stay tuned as we bring you conversations 00:00:43.659 --> 00:00:47.119 with industry leaders, innovative farmers, and 00:00:47.119 --> 00:00:49.719 agricultural experts who aren't afraid to speak 00:00:49.719 --> 00:00:52.560 the truth about what's really happening in dairy 00:00:52.560 --> 00:00:55.490 farming today. You know, sometimes it feels like 00:00:55.490 --> 00:00:58.630 we're so laser -focused on the milk checks and 00:00:58.630 --> 00:01:00.729 keeping the cows happy, which, let's be honest, 00:01:00.829 --> 00:01:02.729 is a full -time job in itself. It really is. 00:01:02.869 --> 00:01:05.290 That we might be overlooking some pretty significant 00:01:05.290 --> 00:01:07.489 opportunities lurking right under our boots. 00:01:08.349 --> 00:01:11.450 Or, well, maybe under the Holsteins. Huh. Yeah. 00:01:12.370 --> 00:01:15.510 Good point. And today, we're taking a good, hard 00:01:15.510 --> 00:01:17.689 look at something every dairy farmer deals with. 00:01:18.069 --> 00:01:22.519 365. Manure. The inevitable byproduct. Exactly. 00:01:22.879 --> 00:01:25.219 But instead of just seeing it as, you know, the 00:01:25.219 --> 00:01:27.159 smelly stuff, we have to shovel the regulations, 00:01:27.280 --> 00:01:29.579 the neighborly waves that suddenly stop. Yeah, 00:01:29.680 --> 00:01:31.879 the headaches. What if we started viewing it 00:01:31.879 --> 00:01:35.260 as a serious, untapped profit center? That's 00:01:35.260 --> 00:01:37.239 the smart way to look at it. For too long, manure 00:01:37.239 --> 00:01:39.099 has been in the problem column, right next to 00:01:39.099 --> 00:01:41.459 fly control and broken equipment. But when you 00:01:41.459 --> 00:01:44.780 really dig into the numbers and the science behind 00:01:44.780 --> 00:01:47.379 it, you realize there's a whole lot of potential 00:01:47.379 --> 00:01:50.250 just sitting there. In those piles. Yeah. We're 00:01:50.250 --> 00:01:52.530 talking about a chance to really shake things 00:01:52.530 --> 00:01:54.930 up economically on your farm. Shake things up 00:01:54.930 --> 00:01:56.890 is right. The information we've been pouring 00:01:56.890 --> 00:02:00.069 over, it really grabbed my attention right out 00:02:00.069 --> 00:02:02.950 of the gate. Oh, yeah. What specifically? It 00:02:02.950 --> 00:02:06.030 suggests that a dairy with around 100 cows could 00:02:06.030 --> 00:02:09.490 be, and this is a quote, flushing away $15 ,000 00:02:09.490 --> 00:02:14.110 every single year. Wow. $15 ,000. Just by not 00:02:14.110 --> 00:02:16.360 being strategic. about composting their manure. 00:02:16.759 --> 00:02:19.360 15 grand, that's a down payment on a new tractor 00:02:19.360 --> 00:02:21.919 or a seriously nice vacation. Or just helps pay 00:02:21.919 --> 00:02:23.719 the bills. It's significant. It's definitely 00:02:23.719 --> 00:02:26.340 not something to just ignore. Exactly. And when 00:02:26.340 --> 00:02:28.500 you start to break down where that lost money 00:02:28.500 --> 00:02:30.919 is going and how composting can actually, you 00:02:30.919 --> 00:02:33.879 know, plug those leaks, it becomes a pretty compelling 00:02:33.879 --> 00:02:37.370 story. Back in 2012... The University of Wisconsin 00:02:37.370 --> 00:02:39.590 Extension did some solid work on this. Right, 00:02:39.629 --> 00:02:41.870 saw that. They found that a significant chunk, 00:02:41.990 --> 00:02:44.650 69 % of farms that got serious about nutrient 00:02:44.650 --> 00:02:47.110 management, and that often includes composting, 00:02:47.150 --> 00:02:49.569 actually saw their bottom line improve. Okay, 00:02:49.610 --> 00:02:51.810 so a clear benefit. Yeah, and the average savings, 00:02:52.050 --> 00:02:55.210 around $18 per acre. Now, for anyone running 00:02:55.210 --> 00:02:57.250 a decent -sized operation, that adds up fast. 00:02:57.909 --> 00:03:01.120 $18 an acre. Right. Yeah, that's real money staying 00:03:01.120 --> 00:03:03.539 right where it belongs in your pocket. Precisely. 00:03:03.759 --> 00:03:06.039 Absolutely. And it's not just about cutting down 00:03:06.039 --> 00:03:08.259 on disposal headaches, is it? It sounds like 00:03:08.259 --> 00:03:10.240 it's about flipping the whole equation. That's 00:03:10.240 --> 00:03:12.280 the exciting part. Taking something that costs 00:03:12.280 --> 00:03:14.580 you time and money and turning it into something 00:03:14.580 --> 00:03:16.800 that actually generates income. We've got the 00:03:16.800 --> 00:03:19.620 prime example here of Bill McPhee from McPhee 00:03:19.620 --> 00:03:22.219 Farms in Michigan. He seems like a case study 00:03:22.219 --> 00:03:24.680 in this. He really does. He initially got into 00:03:24.680 --> 00:03:27.379 composting because he had to. Thanks to those 00:03:27.379 --> 00:03:30.000 CAFO regulations. Right. The confined animal 00:03:30.000 --> 00:03:33.060 feeding operation rules. So compliance. It started 00:03:33.060 --> 00:03:35.159 as a compliance thing. But here's where it gets 00:03:35.159 --> 00:03:38.800 really interesting. He now sells his extra compost. 00:03:39.199 --> 00:03:42.860 Sells it. For how much? For a good $20 a ton. 00:03:43.219 --> 00:03:46.319 So something that began as a regulatory hurdle 00:03:46.319 --> 00:03:49.120 has become a genuine way to boost his farm's 00:03:49.120 --> 00:03:51.949 revenue. You have to love that kind of resourceful 00:03:51.949 --> 00:03:54.770 thinking, turning a problem into a product. It's 00:03:54.770 --> 00:03:57.229 a fantastic illustration of a proactive approach 00:03:57.229 --> 00:03:59.789 paying off, and it highlights a crucial shift 00:03:59.789 --> 00:04:02.569 in how we think about manure. Instead of just 00:04:02.569 --> 00:04:04.770 seeing it as something to get rid of as cheaply 00:04:04.770 --> 00:04:07.530 as possible, smart operators are recognizing 00:04:07.530 --> 00:04:11.169 its inherent worth. As a soil builder. Like fertilizer, 00:04:11.189 --> 00:04:14.610 basically. Exactly. Joe Lower, a fifth generation 00:04:14.610 --> 00:04:17.149 dairy farmer in Wisconsin, put it perfectly, 00:04:17.350 --> 00:04:20.569 he considers animal manure his base fertilizer. 00:04:20.949 --> 00:04:23.490 His base fertilizer. Yeah. I like that. Yeah. 00:04:23.550 --> 00:04:25.790 And anything else he buys is just to fine tune 00:04:25.790 --> 00:04:28.550 things. This philosophy has allowed him to seriously 00:04:28.550 --> 00:04:31.009 cut back on his reliance on those pricey commercial 00:04:31.009 --> 00:04:33.649 fertilizers. Makes sense. And thinking bigger. 00:04:34.170 --> 00:04:36.389 This kind of diversification of income, you know, 00:04:36.389 --> 00:04:39.089 beyond just milk sales. It's a smart move for 00:04:39.089 --> 00:04:41.329 any farm's long -term stability. And the science 00:04:41.329 --> 00:04:43.209 backs up Joe's approach, right? There's that 00:04:43.209 --> 00:04:45.490 Journal of Environmental Quality Review. Yeah, 00:04:45.550 --> 00:04:48.589 in 2019, a comprehensive review. It found that 00:04:48.589 --> 00:04:50.870 farms managing their nutrients effectively, and 00:04:50.870 --> 00:04:53.129 again, composting often plays a big role here, 00:04:53.269 --> 00:04:55.689 they were able to decrease their nitrogen applications 00:04:55.689 --> 00:04:59.310 by an average of 54 pounds per acre. 54 pounds, 00:04:59.430 --> 00:05:02.930 okay. And phosphorus by 32 pounds per acre. And 00:05:02.930 --> 00:05:05.459 here's... The kicker. No yield loss. Exactly. 00:05:05.500 --> 00:05:07.600 They didn't see any drop in their yields. That's 00:05:07.600 --> 00:05:09.420 like getting the same results while spending 00:05:09.420 --> 00:05:12.519 less a farmer's dream. It really is. Precisely. 00:05:12.519 --> 00:05:15.740 So when you do the simple math, it really adds 00:05:15.740 --> 00:05:18.360 up. You're shelling out less for those bags of 00:05:18.360 --> 00:05:21.519 fertilizer. Right. And in some cases, like Bill 00:05:21.519 --> 00:05:23.860 McPhee, you're actually bringing in extra cash 00:05:23.860 --> 00:05:26.839 by selling the compost you produce. That's a 00:05:26.839 --> 00:05:29.480 significant annual financial upside that a lot 00:05:29.480 --> 00:05:31.100 of farms are currently leaving on the table. 00:05:31.220 --> 00:05:33.019 We're not just talking about small change here. 00:05:33.160 --> 00:05:35.139 Not at all. We're talking potentially thousands, 00:05:35.240 --> 00:05:37.139 even tens of thousands, depending on the scale. 00:05:37.259 --> 00:05:39.819 Now, let's wade into a topic that can often feel 00:05:39.819 --> 00:05:42.139 like navigating a minefield for dairy farmers. 00:05:43.540 --> 00:05:47.120 Regulations. Ah, yes. the r word it can seem 00:05:47.120 --> 00:05:49.360 like there's always a new rule book landing on 00:05:49.360 --> 00:05:51.420 the doorstep a new restriction to figure out 00:05:51.420 --> 00:05:54.939 but our sources suggest that getting into composting 00:05:54.939 --> 00:05:56.860 can actually help us stay ahead of the game here 00:05:56.860 --> 00:05:59.579 absolutely and that's a key perspective shift 00:05:59.579 --> 00:06:02.259 instead of looking at regulations as just another 00:06:02.259 --> 00:06:06.279 burden which is easy to do it is but think of 00:06:06.279 --> 00:06:09.500 them as potential drivers for innovation and 00:06:09.500 --> 00:06:12.459 maybe even a way to gain a real advantage how 00:06:12.459 --> 00:06:16.329 so an advantage well Nutrient runoff from agricultural 00:06:16.329 --> 00:06:19.569 land is a major concern for environmental regulators. 00:06:19.970 --> 00:06:21.850 It's a problem that's only going to get more 00:06:21.850 --> 00:06:24.649 attention and likely stricter rules down the 00:06:24.649 --> 00:06:26.629 line. Especially around water quality. Definitely. 00:06:26.889 --> 00:06:29.870 So by adopting efficient nutrient management 00:06:29.870 --> 00:06:33.529 practices like composting, farms can proactively 00:06:33.529 --> 00:06:36.470 address these environmental concerns. They position 00:06:36.470 --> 00:06:38.709 themselves favorably before those regulations 00:06:38.709 --> 00:06:41.310 get tighter. Staying ahead of the curve. Exactly. 00:06:41.970 --> 00:06:44.769 This proactive approach can not only keep you 00:06:44.769 --> 00:06:46.910 on the right side of the law, but also demonstrate 00:06:46.910 --> 00:06:48.730 to the public that you're taking environmental 00:06:48.730 --> 00:06:51.750 responsibility seriously. And that's increasingly 00:06:51.750 --> 00:06:54.350 important today. We even have a fantastic little 00:06:54.350 --> 00:06:56.649 story from Joel Wuerr that really brings this 00:06:56.649 --> 00:06:59.410 point home. Oh, the fish story. Yeah. He was 00:06:59.410 --> 00:07:01.870 genuinely thrilled when environmental officials 00:07:01.870 --> 00:07:04.490 found sensitive fish species thriving in the 00:07:04.490 --> 00:07:06.610 stream that runs through his farm. I mean, what 00:07:06.610 --> 00:07:09.319 better proof could you ask for? Right. Your nutrient 00:07:09.319 --> 00:07:11.819 management system is working and keeping the 00:07:11.819 --> 00:07:14.300 regulatory folks happy. It's a real win -win. 00:07:14.420 --> 00:07:16.939 Absolutely. Healthy environment, happy regulators, 00:07:17.180 --> 00:07:19.879 and peace of mind for the farmer. It truly is. 00:07:19.980 --> 00:07:23.199 That kind of tangible ecological evidence speaks 00:07:23.199 --> 00:07:25.600 volumes. They can definitely smooth things over 00:07:25.600 --> 00:07:27.860 with regulatory agencies. For sure. Now, the 00:07:27.860 --> 00:07:30.079 information we have does acknowledge that the 00:07:30.079 --> 00:07:34.180 initial costs and... putting these systems in 00:07:34.180 --> 00:07:36.839 place can sometimes be a hurdle. Especially for 00:07:36.839 --> 00:07:39.259 smaller farms. Particularly for smaller family 00:07:39.259 --> 00:07:42.199 farm operations, yeah. But Karen Scanlon from 00:07:42.199 --> 00:07:44.240 the Innovation Center for U .S. Dairy makes a 00:07:44.240 --> 00:07:47.360 really important point. The industry is actively 00:07:47.360 --> 00:07:49.579 looking for ways to make these solutions more 00:07:49.579 --> 00:07:52.839 economically feasible for farms of all sizes. 00:07:53.160 --> 00:07:55.379 So collaboration and innovation are ongoing. 00:07:55.540 --> 00:07:57.949 Right. The key message here is that taking a 00:07:57.949 --> 00:08:00.310 proactive stance on smart manure management is 00:08:00.310 --> 00:08:02.730 crucial, no matter the scale of your operation. 00:08:03.069 --> 00:08:04.910 Don't wait until you're forced. Pretty much. 00:08:05.129 --> 00:08:07.069 Waiting until you're forced to act by regulations 00:08:07.069 --> 00:08:09.350 might mean missing out on the early benefits 00:08:09.350 --> 00:08:11.629 and potentially facing steeper learning curves, 00:08:11.790 --> 00:08:14.970 maybe even penalties. Okay, so we've talked about 00:08:14.970 --> 00:08:17.509 the financial perks and how it can help with 00:08:17.509 --> 00:08:20.290 the regulatory side of things. But there's another 00:08:20.290 --> 00:08:22.370 piece of the puzzle that I know weighs heavily 00:08:22.370 --> 00:08:24.910 on many farmers' minds. Being good neighbors. 00:08:25.489 --> 00:08:28.149 Exactly. Let's be frank, those familiar farm 00:08:28.149 --> 00:08:31.089 aromas, well, they can sometimes ruffle a few 00:08:31.089 --> 00:08:33.149 feathers in the surrounding community. That's 00:08:33.149 --> 00:08:35.490 the elephant in the room, isn't it? Or maybe 00:08:35.490 --> 00:08:39.990 the cowpat in the pasture. Yeah. Unfortunately, 00:08:40.350 --> 00:08:42.870 manure odors are often a primary source of complaints 00:08:42.870 --> 00:08:45.690 from folks living nearby. It's a major pain point. 00:08:45.909 --> 00:08:49.090 However, composting offers a significant and 00:08:49.090 --> 00:08:52.450 very real solution to this very issue. How does 00:08:52.450 --> 00:08:54.879 it help with the smell? The composting process 00:08:54.879 --> 00:08:58.419 itself naturally breaks down many of the volatile 00:08:58.419 --> 00:09:01.080 organic compounds. Those are the things responsible 00:09:01.080 --> 00:09:04.120 for those less than pleasant smells. So it actually 00:09:04.120 --> 00:09:06.279 eliminates the odor -causing stuff. Yeah, it's 00:09:06.279 --> 00:09:08.120 like a natural air freshener working from the 00:09:08.120 --> 00:09:10.600 inside out of the manure pile. The microbes do 00:09:10.600 --> 00:09:13.360 the work. So by composting, we're not just being 00:09:13.360 --> 00:09:15.759 better environmental stewards. We're also being 00:09:15.759 --> 00:09:17.960 better members of our community. Absolutely. 00:09:18.000 --> 00:09:20.139 That has to make a big difference in neighborly 00:09:20.139 --> 00:09:22.220 relations, right? You'd think so. It really can 00:09:22.220 --> 00:09:24.860 shift how the farm is perceived, transforming 00:09:24.860 --> 00:09:28.960 its image from potentially being seen as, well, 00:09:29.059 --> 00:09:31.600 a nuisance. A neighborhood villain. Maybe, yeah. 00:09:31.840 --> 00:09:34.919 To being recognized as a sustainability champion 00:09:34.919 --> 00:09:37.759 within the local area. That's a powerful shift. 00:09:37.960 --> 00:09:40.220 And it's not just about the smell. Remember the 00:09:40.220 --> 00:09:42.500 heat generation. Right, the composting gets hot. 00:09:42.679 --> 00:09:45.220 As the manure undergoes composting at those higher 00:09:45.220 --> 00:09:49.059 temperatures, the information mentions 120 degrees 00:09:49.059 --> 00:09:53.200 air to 140 degrees air at McPhee Farms. That's 00:09:53.200 --> 00:09:56.200 pretty warm. It is. It also effectively eliminates 00:09:56.200 --> 00:09:58.799 many of the pathogens and those persistent weed 00:09:58.799 --> 00:10:02.419 seeds. So it cleans it up, too. Exactly. This 00:10:02.419 --> 00:10:05.460 results in a much cleaner, more stable end product, 00:10:05.720 --> 00:10:07.600 which is something that neighbors concerned about 00:10:07.600 --> 00:10:09.879 their own gardens and the general environment 00:10:09.879 --> 00:10:12.320 can certainly appreciate. It's a tangible benefit 00:10:12.320 --> 00:10:14.720 that extends beyond the farm gates. All right. 00:10:14.740 --> 00:10:17.159 Let's get down to the nitty gritty details. For 00:10:17.159 --> 00:10:19.320 those listening who might be thinking, OK, this 00:10:19.320 --> 00:10:21.559 all sounds promising, but how does this composting 00:10:21.559 --> 00:10:24.139 magic actually happen? Let's dig into the basic 00:10:24.139 --> 00:10:28.519 science. OK. At its heart, composting is a natural 00:10:28.519 --> 00:10:31.960 biological process. Simple as that, really. Nature 00:10:31.960 --> 00:10:34.250 doing its thing. Pretty much. It's the conversion 00:10:34.250 --> 00:10:37.889 of raw manure into a stable and incredibly useful 00:10:37.889 --> 00:10:41.529 soil amendment, thanks to a whole army of beneficial 00:10:41.529 --> 00:10:44.590 microorganisms. And microbes. These tiny but 00:10:44.590 --> 00:10:47.250 mighty workers break down the organic matter 00:10:47.250 --> 00:10:49.549 in the manure, and as they go about their business, 00:10:49.610 --> 00:10:52.210 they generate heat as a byproduct. That's the 00:10:52.210 --> 00:10:54.049 key to killing the bad stuff. That's what takes 00:10:54.049 --> 00:10:56.090 care of those pesky pathogens and weed seeds 00:10:56.090 --> 00:10:58.320 we've been talking about. This breakdown process 00:10:58.320 --> 00:11:01.519 also significantly reduces those odor -causing 00:11:01.519 --> 00:11:04.899 compounds, making the end result much more agreeable. 00:11:05.059 --> 00:11:07.019 So it's controlled decomposition. Think of it 00:11:07.019 --> 00:11:09.500 that way, yeah. We're harnessing nature's recyclers, 00:11:09.500 --> 00:11:12.360 bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes to create something 00:11:12.360 --> 00:11:14.960 valuable. Each has its role breaking down different 00:11:14.960 --> 00:11:17.340 parts of the manure. We also have a mention here 00:11:17.340 --> 00:11:19.919 from Joe Lower about his approach to cropping, 00:11:20.039 --> 00:11:22.539 specifically the importance of leaving roots 00:11:22.539 --> 00:11:25.039 in the soil every day of the year. How does that 00:11:25.039 --> 00:11:27.259 tie in? Joe's approach is really insightful. 00:11:27.519 --> 00:11:30.200 It shows a holistic understanding of soil health. 00:11:30.399 --> 00:11:32.559 Keeping something growing all the time. Exactly. 00:11:32.700 --> 00:11:35.419 By using cover crops like wheat and other crops 00:11:35.419 --> 00:11:38.000 harvested for feed, he's creating a continuous 00:11:38.000 --> 00:11:41.360 cycle of nutrient uptake and release. How does 00:11:41.360 --> 00:11:43.940 that help? These living roots help improve soil 00:11:43.940 --> 00:11:46.480 structure, they enhance water infiltration and 00:11:46.480 --> 00:11:49.919 retention, and they prevent erosion. Big benefits 00:11:49.919 --> 00:11:52.179 right there. And for the microbes. They also 00:11:52.179 --> 00:11:54.860 keep the soil microbiome active, which complements 00:11:54.860 --> 00:11:57.460 the benefits of adding compost. Plus, having 00:11:57.460 --> 00:11:59.419 living roots in the ground for more of the year 00:11:59.419 --> 00:12:01.919 expands the window of opportunity for applying 00:12:01.919 --> 00:12:04.440 the composted manure. Ah, because the soil is 00:12:04.440 --> 00:12:06.759 healthier and ready for it. Right. The soil is 00:12:06.759 --> 00:12:09.120 more resilient and better able to utilize those 00:12:09.120 --> 00:12:11.120 nutrients. It's a system where the plants and 00:12:11.120 --> 00:12:13.379 the soil work with the manure management practices. 00:12:14.090 --> 00:12:15.690 And speaking of the finished product, the compost 00:12:15.690 --> 00:12:18.250 itself, our information gives us some example 00:12:18.250 --> 00:12:21.629 figures for the nutrient content. Yeah, the analysis. 00:12:21.929 --> 00:12:24.830 We're seeing things like nitrogen at 1 .8%, phosphorus 00:12:24.830 --> 00:12:29.269 at 0 .9%, potassium at 1 .5%, and so on. Plus 00:12:29.269 --> 00:12:33.029 the CN ratio and pH. Why is this kind of detail 00:12:33.029 --> 00:12:35.909 so valuable? This detailed nutrient profile is 00:12:35.909 --> 00:12:38.730 incredibly valuable. It allows for much more 00:12:38.730 --> 00:12:40.990 precise nutrient management planning. Moving 00:12:40.990 --> 00:12:44.250 beyond guesswork. Totally. Instead of just guessing 00:12:44.250 --> 00:12:47.330 what's in their manure, farmers have actual data. 00:12:47.570 --> 00:12:50.210 This means they can tailor their compost applications 00:12:50.210 --> 00:12:53.169 to the specific needs of their fields. Optimizing 00:12:53.169 --> 00:12:56.309 for crops. Right. Optimizing plant growth and 00:12:56.309 --> 00:12:59.590 further reducing the need to buy commercial fertilizers. 00:12:59.950 --> 00:13:02.570 It's about moving from a potentially hit -or 00:13:02.570 --> 00:13:04.850 -miss approach to a science -based strategy. 00:13:05.250 --> 00:13:07.490 Applying the right stuff in the right amounts 00:13:07.490 --> 00:13:10.009 at the right time. That's the goal. Maximizing 00:13:10.009 --> 00:13:12.210 efficiency and minimizing environmental impact. 00:13:12.799 --> 00:13:15.419 That CN ratio, for instance, tells you about 00:13:15.419 --> 00:13:17.879 the balance for the microbes. Too low or too 00:13:17.879 --> 00:13:20.340 high, and the process slows down. And the pH 00:13:20.340 --> 00:13:22.580 affects nutrient availability for the plants. 00:13:22.740 --> 00:13:25.360 Correct. So knowing those numbers is key to getting 00:13:25.360 --> 00:13:27.419 the most value. We've touched on Bill McPhee 00:13:27.419 --> 00:13:30.299 and McPhee Farms a few times now, but their experience 00:13:30.299 --> 00:13:32.620 really seems to be a textbook example of how 00:13:32.620 --> 00:13:34.700 to make this work successfully. Let's delve a 00:13:34.700 --> 00:13:37.019 little deeper there. Absolutely. What's really 00:13:37.019 --> 00:13:39.600 significant about McPhee's story, as we mentioned, 00:13:39.820 --> 00:13:43.220 is his initial push wasn't some deep -seated 00:13:43.220 --> 00:13:45.419 environmental mission. It was the regulations. 00:13:45.419 --> 00:13:48.840 It was the need to comply with regulations. This 00:13:48.840 --> 00:13:52.179 really underscores the practical bottom line 00:13:52.179 --> 00:13:54.840 motivation for many farmers when they first start 00:13:54.840 --> 00:13:56.919 looking at composting. Makes sense. It has to 00:13:56.919 --> 00:13:59.029 work financially. But what's inspiring is that 00:13:59.029 --> 00:14:01.730 the benefits he's seen have gone way beyond just 00:14:01.730 --> 00:14:05.070 satisfying the regulators. It shows how a requirement 00:14:05.070 --> 00:14:07.909 can evolve into a real advantage. So walk us 00:14:07.909 --> 00:14:09.649 through their composting process. What does it 00:14:09.649 --> 00:14:11.950 actually look like on the farm? Okay. They start 00:14:11.950 --> 00:14:14.009 by collecting the manure and the bedding material, 00:14:14.309 --> 00:14:16.730 things like leaves and straw. Mixing it all together. 00:14:16.950 --> 00:14:19.110 Yeah, and they arrange it into long, elevated 00:14:19.110 --> 00:14:22.389 piles called windrows. Got it. Like long mounds. 00:14:22.490 --> 00:14:25.149 Exactly. The really crucial part of their method 00:14:25.149 --> 00:14:27.750 is that they turn these piles regularly using 00:14:27.750 --> 00:14:30.350 a compost turner. Why is the turning so important? 00:14:30.789 --> 00:14:34.470 Oxygen. This turning action introduces oxygen 00:14:34.470 --> 00:14:37.179 into the heart of the pile. That's essential 00:14:37.179 --> 00:14:40.220 for the aerobic microorganisms, the good guys, 00:14:40.440 --> 00:14:43.000 to thrive and efficiently break down the organic 00:14:43.000 --> 00:14:45.519 matter. And without oxygen. Without enough oxygen, 00:14:45.720 --> 00:14:47.860 anaerobic conditions can develop. That leads 00:14:47.860 --> 00:14:51.100 to those strong unpleasant odors and a much slower 00:14:51.100 --> 00:14:53.779 decomposition rate. So turning equals faster 00:14:53.779 --> 00:14:57.039 composting and less smell. Pretty much. And remember 00:14:57.039 --> 00:14:59.820 that volume reduction. This regular turning, 00:14:59.960 --> 00:15:02.899 as we noted, led to at least a 60 % reduction 00:15:02.899 --> 00:15:05.840 in their manure volume. 60 %? Yeah. That makes 00:15:05.840 --> 00:15:08.200 handling, storing, transporting much easier. 00:15:08.279 --> 00:15:10.000 Much more efficient, yeah. And it's not just 00:15:10.000 --> 00:15:12.179 for spreading on their own fields, right? They've 00:15:12.179 --> 00:15:15.100 found other clever ways to utilize this composted 00:15:15.100 --> 00:15:17.740 material. Exactly. They've tapped into that new 00:15:17.740 --> 00:15:20.019 revenue stream by selling the surplus compost. 00:15:20.759 --> 00:15:23.879 to other farmers, even local gardeners. But they 00:15:23.879 --> 00:15:26.379 also use their compost turner in other innovative 00:15:26.379 --> 00:15:29.379 ways, like drying bedding packs in their barns 00:15:29.379 --> 00:15:31.440 and pastures. Drying the bedding. How does that 00:15:31.440 --> 00:15:34.000 help? Improves the comfort and hygiene for their 00:15:34.000 --> 00:15:37.120 livestock, which can have a direct positive impact 00:15:37.120 --> 00:15:39.419 on animal health and productivity. Healthier 00:15:39.419 --> 00:15:41.940 cows, potentially more milk. It all connects. 00:15:42.080 --> 00:15:44.120 And what's particularly forward -thinking is 00:15:44.120 --> 00:15:47.120 that Bill McPhee is even exploring using the 00:15:47.120 --> 00:15:49.639 finished compost itself as bedding material. 00:15:49.960 --> 00:15:52.580 Really? Compost is bedding. Yeah, he noted its 00:15:52.580 --> 00:15:54.759 consistency and comfort levels seem comparable 00:15:54.759 --> 00:15:57.899 to sawdust. It really showcases the versatility 00:15:57.899 --> 00:16:00.460 of this resource. From waste product to potential 00:16:00.460 --> 00:16:02.720 bedding, that's quite a transformation. It really 00:16:02.720 --> 00:16:05.100 is. The information we have also provides some 00:16:05.100 --> 00:16:07.019 interesting data comparing manure production 00:16:07.019 --> 00:16:09.840 rates and nutrient concentrations based on different 00:16:09.840 --> 00:16:12.059 housing systems. Right, tie stall versus free 00:16:12.059 --> 00:16:14.259 stall. Yeah, it gives figures for kilograms per 00:16:14.259 --> 00:16:17.799 day per animal and nitrogen and phosphorus levels. 00:16:18.320 --> 00:16:21.000 Why is this kind of data important for our listeners? 00:16:21.299 --> 00:16:23.720 This kind of data provides farmers with valuable 00:16:23.720 --> 00:16:26.200 benchmarks. It helps them understand the typical 00:16:26.200 --> 00:16:28.679 volume and nutrient content they're dealing with 00:16:28.679 --> 00:16:31.559 based on their specific housing system. So knowing 00:16:31.559 --> 00:16:34.620 your starting point. Exactly. It's fundamental 00:16:34.620 --> 00:16:36.639 when you're considering setting up a composting 00:16:36.639 --> 00:16:39.480 operation. Knowing roughly how much manure you're 00:16:39.480 --> 00:16:41.960 producing and its initial nutrient load. Helps 00:16:41.960 --> 00:16:44.240 you figure out the scale needed. Right. How much 00:16:44.240 --> 00:16:46.419 land you'll need for composting and storage. 00:16:46.519 --> 00:16:49.179 The potential volume and nutrient content of 00:16:49.179 --> 00:16:51.679 the finished compost you can expect. It's about 00:16:51.679 --> 00:16:54.559 realistic planning. Of course, any new system 00:16:54.559 --> 00:16:57.159 or practice on a farm is bound to come with its 00:16:57.159 --> 00:16:59.899 set of challenges. What are some common hurdles 00:16:59.899 --> 00:17:02.039 farmers might face when they start composting? 00:17:02.429 --> 00:17:05.049 Moisture management is often the first significant 00:17:05.049 --> 00:17:08.109 learning experience. Bill McPhee himself mentioned 00:17:08.109 --> 00:17:10.609 this. Getting the balance right. Absolutely crucial. 00:17:10.869 --> 00:17:13.910 If the pile gets too wet, too saturated, it can 00:17:13.910 --> 00:17:16.549 quickly turn anaerobic. Meaning bad smells and 00:17:16.549 --> 00:17:20.369 slow decomposition. Exactly. Those really strong 00:17:20.369 --> 00:17:23.349 putrid smells. On the other hand, if the pile 00:17:23.349 --> 00:17:26.109 is too dry, the microbial activity just grinds 00:17:26.109 --> 00:17:29.690 to a halt. Composting takes much longer. So monitoring 00:17:29.690 --> 00:17:32.440 moisture is key. Consistently monitoring and 00:17:32.440 --> 00:17:34.619 adjusting the moisture content is a skill you 00:17:34.619 --> 00:17:36.579 have to develop. And we can't forget about the 00:17:36.579 --> 00:17:38.400 unpredictable nature of the weather, can we? 00:17:38.559 --> 00:17:41.559 Never. That's a factor every farmer deals with 00:17:41.559 --> 00:17:44.420 constantly. How does weather impact composting? 00:17:44.599 --> 00:17:47.160 Well, heavy rainfall can overwhelm uncovered 00:17:47.160 --> 00:17:50.099 piles. That can lead to leaching of valuable 00:17:50.099 --> 00:17:52.759 nutrients, potential runoff issues. Which brings 00:17:52.759 --> 00:17:55.599 back the regulatory concerns. Right. Conversely, 00:17:55.619 --> 00:17:57.920 extended periods of freezing temperatures, especially 00:17:57.920 --> 00:18:00.579 up north, can dramatically reduce the biological 00:18:00.579 --> 00:18:03.559 activity. Slow things right down. Cornell's Waste 00:18:03.559 --> 00:18:05.539 Management Institute estimates decomposition 00:18:05.539 --> 00:18:08.680 rates can plummet by 50 to 75 percent during 00:18:08.680 --> 00:18:11.380 winter in those regions. Wow. So you need a plan 00:18:11.380 --> 00:18:13.660 for weather. It's really important to incorporate 00:18:13.660 --> 00:18:15.839 these seasonal variations into your management 00:18:15.839 --> 00:18:19.009 plan. Maybe adjust pile size. Consider temporary 00:18:19.009 --> 00:18:20.670 covers, things like that. What about the actual 00:18:20.670 --> 00:18:23.109 equipment involved, like those turners? Anything 00:18:23.109 --> 00:18:24.890 to keep in mind there? Equipment maintenance 00:18:24.890 --> 00:18:27.130 is definitely something to factor in. Joe Lower 00:18:27.130 --> 00:18:30.269 offers some wise advice here. What gives? Preventative 00:18:30.269 --> 00:18:32.730 maintenance on your compost turner is essential. 00:18:32.990 --> 00:18:34.869 Just like any other piece of farm machinery, 00:18:35.230 --> 00:18:38.690 avoid costly, time -consuming breakdowns. Treat 00:18:38.690 --> 00:18:41.950 it like your tractor or harvester. Exactly. Regular 00:18:41.950 --> 00:18:44.250 servicing and upkeep will save significant headaches 00:18:44.250 --> 00:18:46.490 and expense in the long run. Keep the operation 00:18:46.490 --> 00:18:49.789 running smoothly. And finally, space. It sounds 00:18:49.789 --> 00:18:51.690 like that could become a limiting factor, particularly 00:18:51.690 --> 00:18:54.910 for larger dairies. Yes, definitely. As your 00:18:54.910 --> 00:18:57.450 operation expands to handle more manure, the 00:18:57.450 --> 00:18:59.970 amount of land needed for active composting, 00:18:59.970 --> 00:19:02.710 curing, and storage naturally increases. How 00:19:02.710 --> 00:19:05.089 much space are we talking? Penn State's Ag Research 00:19:05.089 --> 00:19:08.769 Center estimates roughly 1 .5 to 2 square feet 00:19:08.769 --> 00:19:11.769 per cow just for the active composting phase. 00:19:11.990 --> 00:19:13.670 And that doesn't include curing and storage? 00:19:14.009 --> 00:19:16.579 Nope. you need additional area for those crucial 00:19:16.579 --> 00:19:19.720 stages. So careful strategic planning of your 00:19:19.720 --> 00:19:21.960 composting site is essential to ensure you have 00:19:21.960 --> 00:19:24.259 enough room, especially if you plan to scale 00:19:24.259 --> 00:19:26.519 up. Now this is where things start to get really 00:19:26.519 --> 00:19:28.839 cutting edge and exciting. Our source material 00:19:28.839 --> 00:19:31.039 also delves into some of the latest innovations 00:19:31.039 --> 00:19:33.960 taking manure management to a whole new level. 00:19:34.079 --> 00:19:36.200 Yeah, beyond the basics. Let's kick things off 00:19:36.200 --> 00:19:39.799 by talking about biochar. Biochar is indeed a 00:19:39.799 --> 00:19:42.630 fascinating development. Recent research from 00:19:42.630 --> 00:19:45.049 Cornell has shown that adding biochar during 00:19:45.049 --> 00:19:47.829 composting can lead to some truly remarkable 00:19:47.829 --> 00:19:50.349 reductions in emissions. What kind of reductions? 00:19:50.529 --> 00:19:53.069 Greenhouse gases and other volatile compounds. 00:19:53.309 --> 00:19:57.160 We're talking significant decreases 58 % less 00:19:57.160 --> 00:20:01.759 methane. 58%. 67 % less hydrogen sulfide. 61 00:20:01.759 --> 00:20:05.259 % fewer volatile organic compounds. And a whopping 00:20:05.259 --> 00:20:08.700 70 % decrease in nitrogen oxides. Those are game 00:20:08.700 --> 00:20:10.559 -changing numbers, especially considering the 00:20:10.559 --> 00:20:12.599 environmental focus on agriculture. They really 00:20:12.599 --> 00:20:15.420 are. Those are truly staggering statistics. And 00:20:15.420 --> 00:20:17.180 the information even puts a potential dollar 00:20:17.180 --> 00:20:19.180 figure on the environmental benefits. Right, 00:20:19.240 --> 00:20:21.299 the social cost of greenhouse gases calculation. 00:20:21.920 --> 00:20:25.039 Suggesting savings of over $66 ,000 annually. 00:20:25.349 --> 00:20:28.589 per farm based on EPA estimates. That's serious 00:20:28.589 --> 00:20:30.769 money just from reducing emissions. It absolutely 00:20:30.769 --> 00:20:33.690 is. How exactly is biochar achieving these impressive 00:20:33.690 --> 00:20:36.369 results? What's the science? The researchers 00:20:36.369 --> 00:20:39.289 believe the key lies in biochar's unique porous 00:20:39.289 --> 00:20:41.210 structure. Think of it like a sponge, but on 00:20:41.210 --> 00:20:43.730 a microscopic level. Okay. Lots of surface area. 00:20:43.930 --> 00:20:47.309 Exactly. This increased porosity allows for much 00:20:47.309 --> 00:20:49.890 better oxygen penetration throughout the compost 00:20:49.890 --> 00:20:52.480 pile. Which helps the good aerobic microbes. 00:20:52.779 --> 00:20:55.140 Right. Supports more efficient aerobic decomposition, 00:20:55.579 --> 00:20:58.559 which produces far less methane than anaerobic 00:20:58.559 --> 00:21:02.200 conditions. Plus, that huge surface area allows 00:21:02.200 --> 00:21:05.480 the biochar to absorb gas precursors directly 00:21:05.480 --> 00:21:08.160 onto its surface. So it traps the stuff before 00:21:08.160 --> 00:21:10.500 it becomes a gas. Pretty much. It prevents them 00:21:10.500 --> 00:21:12.640 from being released into the atmosphere. It's 00:21:12.640 --> 00:21:15.579 a two -pronged attack on emissions. And the potential 00:21:15.579 --> 00:21:17.990 benefits don't end there, do they? There's mention 00:21:17.990 --> 00:21:21.029 of carbon credits. Exactly. This is looking ahead, 00:21:21.269 --> 00:21:23.730 but as carbon markets continue to mature and 00:21:23.730 --> 00:21:26.930 develop. Which seems likely. It does. These substantial 00:21:26.930 --> 00:21:29.089 reductions in greenhouse gas emissions could 00:21:29.089 --> 00:21:31.670 potentially position dairy farmers using Bidochar 00:21:31.670 --> 00:21:34.009 to generate revenue through selling carbon credits. 00:21:34.289 --> 00:21:36.569 Getting paid to reduce emissions. It's a really 00:21:36.569 --> 00:21:39.390 promising innovation, potential to significantly 00:21:39.390 --> 00:21:42.410 enhance both environmental sustainability and 00:21:42.410 --> 00:21:45.779 the economic viability of composting. Like getting 00:21:45.779 --> 00:21:48.700 paid to do the right thing. The source also briefly 00:21:48.700 --> 00:21:51.859 touches on anaerobic digestion as another innovative 00:21:51.859 --> 00:21:54.819 approach. How does that fit in? Anaerobic digestion 00:21:54.819 --> 00:21:57.660 is another significant pathway, yeah. It's often 00:21:57.660 --> 00:22:00.140 more suitable for larger -scale dairy operations, 00:22:00.279 --> 00:22:02.920 though. Different process than composting. Completely 00:22:02.920 --> 00:22:05.900 different. Unlike composting, which needs oxygen, 00:22:06.299 --> 00:22:08.940 anaerobic digestion breaks down manure in an 00:22:08.940 --> 00:22:11.769 oxygen -free environment. usually in sealed tanks 00:22:11.769 --> 00:22:14.490 or digesters and the main output the primary 00:22:14.490 --> 00:22:18.190 highly valuable byproduct is biogas which is 00:22:18.190 --> 00:22:20.910 mostly methane methane but isn't that a greenhouse 00:22:20.910 --> 00:22:24.950 gas it is but here it's captured this biogas 00:22:24.950 --> 00:22:27.690 can then be used as a renewable fuel source generate 00:22:27.690 --> 00:22:30.750 electricity heat so turning manure into energy 00:22:30.750 --> 00:22:34.130 exactly further reducing the farm's carbon footprint 00:22:34.130 --> 00:22:36.730 potentially creating another revenue stream through 00:22:36.730 --> 00:22:39.390 energy production or selling the biogas karen 00:22:39.390 --> 00:22:41.869 scanlon highlighted its role in minimizing emissions 00:22:41.869 --> 00:22:44.950 while also creating valuable soil products so 00:22:44.950 --> 00:22:47.329 different tech different benefits may be suited 00:22:47.329 --> 00:22:49.789 for different scales that's a good summary composting 00:22:49.789 --> 00:22:51.789 is often more accessible for a wider range of 00:22:51.789 --> 00:22:54.500 farm sizes Okay, so we've laid out the potential 00:22:54.500 --> 00:22:56.839 benefits, navigated some potential challenges, 00:22:57.039 --> 00:22:59.599 looked at innovations. Now let's talk brass tacks. 00:22:59.799 --> 00:23:02.119 The money question. What kind of upfront investment 00:23:02.119 --> 00:23:05.059 are we looking at for a typical composting system 00:23:05.059 --> 00:23:08.220 on a dairy farm? Okay, for a relatively basic 00:23:08.220 --> 00:23:11.099 windrow composting system, say for a 200 cow 00:23:11.099 --> 00:23:14.799 dairy, the main cost is often the compost turner. 00:23:14.859 --> 00:23:16.819 How much does that run? Estimates range from 00:23:16.819 --> 00:23:20.940 approximately $20 ,000 up to $45 ,000 for a good 00:23:20.940 --> 00:23:23.779 quality, reliable machine. $20 ,000 to $45 ,000. 00:23:23.859 --> 00:23:26.259 Okay. You also need to factor in site preparation 00:23:26.259 --> 00:23:29.440 costs, ensuring proper drainage, containment 00:23:29.440 --> 00:23:31.880 to prevent runoff. That could be in the neighborhood 00:23:31.880 --> 00:23:35.539 of $5 ,000 to $10 ,000. Site prep. Got it. And 00:23:35.539 --> 00:23:37.660 finally, adding in essential monitoring equipment, 00:23:37.880 --> 00:23:40.519 temperature probes. Moisture meters, probably 00:23:40.519 --> 00:23:43.880 another $500 to $1 ,000. So all in, you could 00:23:43.880 --> 00:23:47.099 be looking at, what, $25 ,000 to maybe $55 ,000 00:23:47.099 --> 00:23:49.380 or $60 ,000 to get started with a basic system? 00:23:49.460 --> 00:23:51.640 That's a reasonable ballpark range, yeah. It's 00:23:51.640 --> 00:23:53.859 a significant but potentially very worthwhile 00:23:53.859 --> 00:23:56.740 investment. That is a considerable outlay of 00:23:56.740 --> 00:23:59.200 capital. What kind of return on that investment 00:23:59.200 --> 00:24:02.960 can dairy farmers realistically expect? When 00:24:02.960 --> 00:24:05.740 do they get that money back? Well, a 2020 analysis 00:24:05.740 --> 00:24:08.039 by the University of Minnesota Extension Service 00:24:08.039 --> 00:24:10.940 found something pretty encouraging. Yeah? The 00:24:10.940 --> 00:24:13.339 majority of operations that invested in composting 00:24:13.339 --> 00:24:15.900 saw a complete return on their initial investment 00:24:15.900 --> 00:24:18.900 within a relatively short time frame. Oh, sure. 00:24:19.180 --> 00:24:21.500 Two to three years, typically. Two to three years 00:24:21.500 --> 00:24:23.519 ROI. That's pretty quick for farm investments. 00:24:23.819 --> 00:24:26.420 It is. And the equipment itself, if you maintain 00:24:26.420 --> 00:24:28.980 it properly, can often last more than a decade, 00:24:29.160 --> 00:24:32.480 providing long -term value. And for smaller operations 00:24:32.480 --> 00:24:35.000 where that initial cost is still tough. There 00:24:35.000 --> 00:24:37.660 are strategies. Forming partnerships with neighbors 00:24:37.660 --> 00:24:40.440 to share equipment costs and use. Like a co -op 00:24:40.440 --> 00:24:43.420 model. Sort of, yeah. Or even modifying existing 00:24:43.420 --> 00:24:45.759 farm machinery, if possible, for turning compost, 00:24:45.960 --> 00:24:47.779 although that might be less efficient. We keep 00:24:47.779 --> 00:24:50.140 coming back to their success, but what was McPhee 00:24:50.140 --> 00:24:52.920 Farms' experience? Their initial investment and 00:24:52.920 --> 00:24:55.769 break -even. McPhee Farms invested around $30 00:24:55.769 --> 00:24:58.589 ,000 in their system. And they calculated that 00:24:58.589 --> 00:25:00.690 they reached their break -even point in just 00:25:00.690 --> 00:25:03.549 about 18 months. 18 months, wow. And get this, 00:25:03.569 --> 00:25:06.490 that impressive payback period was based solely 00:25:06.490 --> 00:25:09.829 on savings from reduced manure handling costs 00:25:09.829 --> 00:25:12.490 and lower fertilizer expenses. It didn't even 00:25:12.490 --> 00:25:15.069 count the compost sales. didn't even factor in 00:25:15.069 --> 00:25:16.829 the additional income they were generating from 00:25:16.829 --> 00:25:19.529 selling the finished compost. That really underscores 00:25:19.529 --> 00:25:21.589 the rapid financial benefits a well -managed 00:25:21.589 --> 00:25:24.130 system can deliver. So for those listening who 00:25:24.130 --> 00:25:26.289 are now seriously considering this, thinking, 00:25:26.450 --> 00:25:29.950 okay, I want to stop flushing money away, what 00:25:29.950 --> 00:25:32.210 are some concrete actions they can take to get 00:25:32.210 --> 00:25:34.670 the ball rolling? Our source material lays out 00:25:34.670 --> 00:25:36.930 a really clear and actionable five -step plan, 00:25:37.109 --> 00:25:39.970 logical steps. Let's hear them. Step one. The 00:25:39.970 --> 00:25:42.529 very first thing. Thoroughly assess your current 00:25:42.529 --> 00:25:44.569 situation. Know where you stand now. Exactly. 00:25:45.210 --> 00:25:47.890 Document the volume of manure your farm produces. 00:25:48.450 --> 00:25:51.029 Understand your current costs for handling and 00:25:51.029 --> 00:25:53.950 disposal. And be crystal clear on any relevant 00:25:53.950 --> 00:25:56.869 regulations in your specific area. Okay, assessment 00:25:56.869 --> 00:25:59.970 first. Step two. Absolutely crucial. Start with 00:25:59.970 --> 00:26:03.109 comprehensive soil and manure testing. Test everything. 00:26:03.349 --> 00:26:05.630 You need to know the precise nutrient profile 00:26:05.630 --> 00:26:08.740 of both your soil and your manure. That's fundamental 00:26:08.740 --> 00:26:11.960 for developing an effective, tailored plan. You 00:26:11.960 --> 00:26:14.039 can't manage what you don't measure. Makes perfect 00:26:14.039 --> 00:26:16.759 sense. What's the third step? Step number three 00:26:16.759 --> 00:26:19.240 is all about building your team and your knowledge 00:26:19.240 --> 00:26:23.339 base. Don't go it alone. Definitely not. Actively 00:26:23.339 --> 00:26:26.380 connect with certified crop advisors, your local 00:26:26.380 --> 00:26:29.579 soil and water conservation district folks, and 00:26:29.579 --> 00:26:32.000 importantly, talk to other dairy farmers who 00:26:32.000 --> 00:26:35.039 are already successfully composting. Their real 00:26:35.039 --> 00:26:37.259 -world experience and practical guidance can 00:26:37.259 --> 00:26:40.039 be absolutely invaluable. Learn from those already 00:26:40.039 --> 00:26:43.420 doing it. Okay, step four. Fourth. Based on all 00:26:43.420 --> 00:26:45.200 the info you've gathered, your assessment, your 00:26:45.200 --> 00:26:47.779 tests, the advice you need to carefully design 00:26:47.779 --> 00:26:50.700 your compost system. Tailor it to the farm. Exactly. 00:26:51.400 --> 00:26:53.539 Determine the right type and size of equipment 00:26:53.539 --> 00:26:55.920 you'll need. Figure out the space requirements 00:26:55.920 --> 00:26:59.059 on your farm. Establish the specific processes 00:26:59.059 --> 00:27:01.339 turning frequency, moisture targets that will 00:27:01.339 --> 00:27:04.480 work best for your unique needs, and scale. And 00:27:04.480 --> 00:27:08.500 what's the final crucial step? Step five. Finally, 00:27:08.539 --> 00:27:11.079 it's absolutely essential to track your results 00:27:11.079 --> 00:27:14.559 diligently. Monitor progress. Continuously. This 00:27:14.559 --> 00:27:17.140 means regularly monitoring the quality of your 00:27:17.140 --> 00:27:19.779 compost through testing. But maybe even more 00:27:19.779 --> 00:27:22.240 importantly, keep a close eye on the financial 00:27:22.240 --> 00:27:25.160 impact composting is having on your overall farm 00:27:25.160 --> 00:27:27.779 operation. See if it's actually saving and making 00:27:27.779 --> 00:27:30.660 money. Right. This ongoing monitoring lets you 00:27:30.660 --> 00:27:33.440 fine -tune your system over time and clearly 00:27:33.440 --> 00:27:35.759 demonstrates the true value of this investment 00:27:35.759 --> 00:27:38.450 to yourself, maybe your lender, Maybe others. 00:27:38.690 --> 00:27:40.630 To really hammer home the potential financial 00:27:40.630 --> 00:27:43.509 impact, let's just revisit those estimated benefits. 00:27:43.869 --> 00:27:47.150 The information suggests around $18 per acre 00:27:47.150 --> 00:27:49.450 in fertilizer savings. Yep, average from that 00:27:49.450 --> 00:27:52.390 Wisconsin study. And for, say, a 600 -acre farm, 00:27:52.509 --> 00:27:55.430 that quickly adds up to over $10 ,000 annually, 00:27:55.630 --> 00:27:59.250 just in fertilizer savings. $10 ,800, yeah. Not 00:27:59.250 --> 00:28:01.130 insignificant. Then you've got the potential 00:28:01.130 --> 00:28:03.789 for additional revenue from selling excess compost, 00:28:04.029 --> 00:28:07.369 like McPhee, at $20 a ton. That could be significant 00:28:07.369 --> 00:28:09.369 depending on your volume and market. Could easily 00:28:09.369 --> 00:28:13.170 be thousands more. And when you factor in the 00:28:13.170 --> 00:28:15.170 potential long -term savings associated with 00:28:15.170 --> 00:28:17.930 reduced environmental impact, especially if you're 00:28:17.930 --> 00:28:20.369 looking at innovations like biochar with those 00:28:20.369 --> 00:28:23.740 huge emission reductions. $66 ,000 potential 00:28:23.740 --> 00:28:26.740 impact figure. The total annual benefit could 00:28:26.740 --> 00:28:29.859 realistically climb well into the tens of thousands 00:28:29.859 --> 00:28:32.640 of dollars, maybe even push towards six figures 00:28:32.640 --> 00:28:34.559 for some operations. It's certainly possible. 00:28:34.599 --> 00:28:36.599 The potential is there. It's not something any 00:28:36.599 --> 00:28:39.700 farm can afford to just ignore. Exactly. The 00:28:39.700 --> 00:28:41.599 fundamental question really boils down to this. 00:28:41.980 --> 00:28:44.880 Can you afford to keep treating manure as just 00:28:44.880 --> 00:28:48.740 a waste product? Or maybe. Can you afford not 00:28:48.740 --> 00:28:51.019 to explore its potential as a valuable resource? 00:28:51.440 --> 00:28:53.900 Right. With the clear financial advantages, the 00:28:53.900 --> 00:28:56.599 benefits in navigating regulations, improving 00:28:56.599 --> 00:28:59.400 community relations. And the potential for future 00:28:59.400 --> 00:29:03.200 revenue streams like carbon credits. Composting 00:29:03.200 --> 00:29:05.259 presents a really compelling opportunity for 00:29:05.259 --> 00:29:07.680 modern dairy operations. The technology isn't 00:29:07.680 --> 00:29:09.700 brand new either. No, it's well established. 00:29:09.940 --> 00:29:12.559 The economics are increasingly attractive. And 00:29:12.559 --> 00:29:14.519 the farmers who are embracing these practices, 00:29:14.740 --> 00:29:17.019 the early adopters, they're already reaping the 00:29:17.019 --> 00:29:19.619 rewards. That manure pile isn't just something 00:29:19.619 --> 00:29:22.170 you have to deal with. It's a hidden asset. Waiting 00:29:22.170 --> 00:29:25.009 to be unlocked. So the real question for everyone 00:29:25.009 --> 00:29:28.289 listening is, are you going to seize this opportunity 00:29:28.289 --> 00:29:31.029 or are you going to watch your neighbors do it? 00:29:31.130 --> 00:29:33.950 That's a powerful way to frame it. So for someone 00:29:33.950 --> 00:29:36.829 who's feeling motivated, ready to stop watching 00:29:36.829 --> 00:29:39.609 and start doing, what's the very first call they 00:29:39.609 --> 00:29:41.609 should make? The information we've looked at 00:29:41.609 --> 00:29:44.509 has a great simple suggestion. Reach out to your 00:29:44.509 --> 00:29:47.109 local agricultural extension office. The extension 00:29:47.109 --> 00:29:50.339 office. Good resource. They are a fantastic resource. 00:29:50.460 --> 00:29:53.200 They can provide valuable information, guidance 00:29:53.200 --> 00:29:56.299 tailored to your specific region, connect you 00:29:56.299 --> 00:29:58.519 with experts, maybe even funding opportunities. 00:29:58.720 --> 00:30:01.140 It's the perfect first step. So to bring it all 00:30:01.140 --> 00:30:03.400 together, it's clear that manure is so much more 00:30:03.400 --> 00:30:05.980 than just a byproduct of dairy farming. Way more. 00:30:06.160 --> 00:30:09.079 It's a valuable resource brimming with untapped 00:30:09.079 --> 00:30:11.799 potential to significantly improve your farm's 00:30:11.799 --> 00:30:14.480 bottom line, strengthen your relationships with 00:30:14.480 --> 00:30:17.279 regulators and your community. And even position 00:30:17.279 --> 00:30:19.819 you for emerging opportunities in sustainable 00:30:19.819 --> 00:30:22.880 agriculture. The key takeaway is that a strategic 00:30:22.880 --> 00:30:25.740 approach to composting can transform what's often 00:30:25.740 --> 00:30:28.619 seen as a liability into a genuine profit center. 00:30:28.799 --> 00:30:32.099 A true asset. we strongly encourage you to seriously 00:30:32.099 --> 00:30:34.980 consider the hidden potential within your manure 00:30:34.980 --> 00:30:37.819 piles. Explore how smart composting strategies 00:30:37.819 --> 00:30:40.819 can contribute to the long -term financial and 00:30:40.819 --> 00:30:43.180 environmental sustainability of your farm. Don't 00:30:43.180 --> 00:30:46.299 leave that money on the table or in the pile. 00:30:46.460 --> 00:30:49.359 Exactly. Start looking at that manure not as 00:30:49.359 --> 00:30:51.180 a problem to be dealt with, but as your farm's 00:30:51.180 --> 00:30:53.599 hidden goldmine just waiting to be extracted. 00:30:53.960 --> 00:30:55.900 And with that thought, we've reached the end 00:30:55.900 --> 00:30:58.309 of this deep dive. Thanks for tuning in. That 00:30:58.309 --> 00:31:00.789 wraps up another episode of the Bullvine Podcast. 00:31:01.309 --> 00:31:04.049 Thank you for joining us as we continue to push 00:31:04.049 --> 00:31:07.109 the boundaries of dairy farming innovation. If 00:31:07.109 --> 00:31:09.369 you found value in today's discussion, please 00:31:09.369 --> 00:31:11.670 take a moment to subscribe to our podcast on 00:31:11.670 --> 00:31:13.609 your favorite platform and leave us a review. 00:31:13.829 --> 00:31:16.509 Your support helps us continue bringing bold, 00:31:16.670 --> 00:31:19.509 unfiltered dairy content to producers worldwide. 00:31:20.130 --> 00:31:24.630 Visit us at www .thebullvine .com for more in 00:31:24.630 --> 00:31:27.490 -depth articles industry analysis, and exclusive 00:31:27.490 --> 00:31:30.750 content that you won't find anywhere else. Connect 00:31:30.750 --> 00:31:33.069 with us on social media to join the conversation 00:31:33.069 --> 00:31:36.589 and share your thoughts. Until next time, keep 00:31:36.589 --> 00:31:39.309 innovating, keep challenging the status quo, 00:31:39.490 --> 00:31:41.890 and remember that the future of dairy belongs 00:31:41.890 --> 00:31:44.230 to those who aren't afraid to think differently. 00:31:44.690 --> 00:31:48.069 This is the Bullvine Podcast, signing off.