LIQUID, COMPOSTED OR DRY-STACKED? UNRAVELLING THE EFFECTS OF MANURE TREATMENT ON PESTS IN ORGANIC FIELD CROPS

We propose to evaluate the relative effect of liquid, dry-stack, and composted bovine manure on weeds, pathogens, and insect pests, yield, and economics. We will 1) measure the effect of manure types on weeds, insects, and pathogens, 2) investigate the relative contributions of nutrients, organic matter, and microbes from different manure types on corn susceptibility to insect pests, 3) document decision-making about manure management strategies on three representative organic farms, and 4) provide extension publications and meetings to local organic growers to support their use of manure fertility and pest management.