Composition of Equine Manure as Influenced by Stall Management

A study was conducted to compare the composition of equine manure as removed from stall, and bedding-free on six horse farms. The farms ranged a pleasure stable with poorly managed stalls an intensively for racehorses. characteristics measured included: moisture content, total nitrogen, ammoniacal nitrate organic phosphorous (expressed P2O5), potassium K2O), calcium, magnesium, sulfur, zinc, copper, manganese, iron, carbon, electrical conductivity (index soluble salts), pH. Statistical analysis indicated that stall management had significant impact dry basis concentrations all plant nutrients, matter, pH, EC. It also determined C:N 23.4:1 48.5:1 depending amount bedding used daily management. value indicator level (high, medium, low). phosphorous, sodium were negatively correlated manure. Average EC measurements 1.86 3.46 mmhos/cm. correlation analysis, included metals could be in salt form, significantly K2O content but not sodium, or magnesium. high values composting may preferred method treatment prior land application. However, spreading based agronomic rate P2O5 pasture adding fertilizer nitrogen sufficient reduce applied 10:1 overcome induced deficiency provide another alternative.