P.E.I. Farmers Harness Cow Manure to Enhance Soil and Cut Emissions

Farmers in Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) are exploring innovative approaches to improve soil health and reduce carbon emissions by utilizing cow manure. Through the Living Labs P.E.I. project, farmers like Nick Green collaborate with researchers from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to apply practical solutions on a large scale.

Green manages over 200 hectares of grazing land, a mix of his own and parcels he trades with other farmers. This collaborative approach allows cattle to graze on various properties while their manure acts as a natural fertilizer, enriching the soil and promoting stability.

As farming practices evolve, Green notes a shift from diverse mixed operations to specialized farming. The rising costs of chemical fertilizers have made traditional practices increasingly challenging. “One year our costs literally went up 100 percent,” he explained, emphasizing the financial strain on farmers. In contrast, directly applying manure offers a more economical solution, enabling farmers to sustain healthy soil with minimal expenses.

Research Aims to Enhance Soil Stability

The research led by Dr. Judith Nyiraneza aims to identify effective methods for improving soil health while also retaining carbon. P.E.I. possesses fertile soil ideal for food production, but its fragility poses risks, particularly from erosion due to the island’s distinct topography and strong tidal influences.

Nyiraneza highlighted that increasing organic matter in the soil not only strengthens it but also enhances crop yields. Early findings suggest that implementing rotational grazing, as practiced by Green, can increase potato yields by as much as 28 percent.

Despite the historical use of rotational grazing, its popularity has waned as farms have expanded, leading to soil degradation. “When farmers shifted to chemical fertilizers, we saw our soil degrading. It’s almost like we’re going backwards,” Nyiraneza stated.

Innovative Techniques for Manure Application

For those who prefer to avoid the direct handling of manure, alternative application methods are being researched. Dr. Erin Smith, another scientist involved in the project, is investigating a precise injection technique. This method uses a tractor-mounted arm to inject liquid manure into the soil, significantly reducing nutrient evaporation.

“So far, we’ve seen a 35 percent reduction in nitrogen loss with the injection method,” Smith noted, indicating that this technique not only conserves resources but also maximizes nutrient availability for crops.

The ongoing research aims to determine if these methods are cost-effective for farmers. “Is this technology something that farmers should be investing in? And is it worth the investment?” Smith queried, underscoring the importance of practical applications in agricultural settings.

The project, expected to continue for approximately three more years, will assess the long-term effects of various methods under different weather conditions. With many dairy and cattle producers on P.E.I. already managing liquid manure, there is ample opportunity for further testing.

Green remains optimistic about the potential of his cattle to contribute positively to climate discussions. While livestock have often been viewed as significant contributors to methane emissions, he firmly believes they can also be part of the solution rather than the problem.

This research not only addresses immediate agricultural challenges but also aligns with broader environmental goals, demonstrating how traditional farming practices can adapt to contemporary needs. As Green and his fellow farmers work with scientists, they are paving the way for a sustainable future in agriculture, one cow at a time.

This report was first published on December 28, 2025, by The Canadian Press.