Why certify laboratories for manure testing?
In response to economic and environmental concerns, and as a result of increasing educational, cost-share and regulatory programs, the number of livestock producers who test their manure has increased dramatically in the last five to ten years. Despite this trend, many livestock producers still do not test their manure on a regular basis. Difficulties with sampling, variability in test results and concern about the accuracy of nutrient availability estimates have led many producers to question the value of manure testing. In response to increased customer demand, the need to fill information gaps and the desire to promote the value of manure testing, agricultural laboratories are devoting more resources to manure analysis and promotion of their manure testing and nutrient management services. There has been a corresponding laboratory need for information and technical assistance for development and improvement of manure analysis methods, quality control and assurance, reporting and int
