This project aims to assist cotton growers in the irrigated Riverina region of southern NSW better estimate how chicken and cattle manure may be applied to reduce synthetic fertiliser inputs without compromising cotton yield and quality. In the southern region of NSW, cotton cropping is located in close proximity to intensive cattle and chicken production. A significant number of growers are taking advantage of the available manure to offset some of the costs of synthetic nutrients and for other soil fertility benefits. However, cotton is a relatively new crop in the area and inexperienced growers do not have regionally specific nutrient response information for less fertile southern soil types.

In addition, the project will evaluate more rapid methods that are claimed to be faster in quantifying fertility improvement in the context of manure application. This work will assess crop responses, examine the contributions and availability of important nutrients other than nitrogen (P, K, S, Zn, Cu) and monitor soil tensile strength, water holding capacity, water stable aggregates and any negative impacts re manure rate treatments. The datasets will provide regionally specific information which can be used to refine existing general manure management guidelines developed for broadacre cereals. See also the continuing CRDC Project, DU1903.