Farmers Harness Cow Manure to Boost Soil Health and Cut Emissions

Research in Prince Edward Island is exploring innovative ways to use cow manure to enhance soil health while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The initiative, part of a project led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, involves local farmers collaborating with researchers to examine the benefits of manure application in real-world farming conditions.

Nick Green, a farmer participating in the project, manages cattle across over 200 hectares of land. In a unique approach, he trades grazing rights with other farmers, allowing his cattle to fertilize their fields naturally. “We essentially provide a service,” Green explained, referring to the exchange of manure for grazing opportunities. This method not only enriches the soil but also helps mitigate the rising costs associated with chemical fertilizers, which have surged dramatically in recent years.

The escalating prices of chemical fertilizers have prompted farmers to seek alternative solutions. Green noted that one year, his farming costs soared by 100 percent, significantly impacting his operations. “It’s tens of thousands of dollars for us,” he said. By applying manure directly to the fields, farmers can lower their expenses while improving soil fertility.

Improving Soil Resilience and Crop Yields

The research, overseen by Dr. Judith Nyiraneza, aims to determine the most effective methods for enhancing soil health and carbon retention. P.E.I.’s soil, while rich for food production, is also vulnerable to erosion due to its unique topography and strong tides. Nyiraneza emphasized the importance of increasing organic matter in the soil to enhance its resilience. Early results from the study indicate promising outcomes, with rotational grazing practices like those employed by Green potentially increasing potato yields by 28 percent.

Rotational grazing, an age-old practice, has seen a decline as farms have grown larger and more specialized. The shift towards chemical fertilizers has further contributed to soil degradation. Nyiraneza remarked, “We saw our soil degrading. It’s almost like we’re going backwards.” The current project seeks to reverse this trend, improving both soil health and crop output for farmers.

For those who may be hesitant to work with manure directly, researchers are exploring alternative manure application methods. Dr. Erin Smith is investigating a more precise injection technique, where liquid manure is injected into the soil through a specialized arm attached to a tractor. This method minimizes nutrient loss, achieving a remarkable 35 percent reduction in nitrogen evaporation. “Less nitrogen is being lost and more is available for plants to utilize,” Smith explained.

Long-term Benefits and Future Research

The Living Labs project is set to continue for approximately three more years, allowing researchers to assess the long-term effectiveness of these methods across varying weather conditions. Given that many local dairy and cattle producers already manage liquid manure, there is ample opportunity for further testing and refinement of these practices.

Green is optimistic about the potential of his cattle to contribute positively to climate change discussions. Traditionally viewed as a significant source of methane emissions in agriculture, he believes that cattle can be part of the solution. “I’m a firm believer they’re part of the solution, they’re not part of the problem,” he stated.

As this research progresses, it could provide valuable insights into sustainable farming practices that benefit both the environment and farmers’ bottom lines. The findings may also inform broader agricultural policies aimed at reducing emissions while promoting soil health across Canada.

This article was originally published by The Canadian Press on December 28, 2025.