When managed well, effluent can offer valuable nutrients to pasture and crops but the challenge is unlocking that potential.
There is also heightened interest in ensuring effluent is managed effectively to protect the environment.
With these reasons in mind, Dan Witters from MicroBio Solutions is excited for what Effluex offers dairy farmers.
“When effluent solids are applied to paddocks, they’re often dropped out of the grazing rotation,” MicroBio Solutions managing director Dan Witters explains.
“The solids sitting on the pasture reduces the photosynthesis ability of the grass and can lead to soil compaction and poor growth rates. But when farmers apply Effluex to their effluent pond, it gives them more options as it breaks down solids, preventing the build-up of sludge and crust.”
Effluex has a blend of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria that speed up the breakdown of animal and other high-protein wastes. Farmers subscribe to receive a delivery each month, based on the size of their herd, ready to be applied to the effluent pond. In the pond, it breaks down surface crust and gradually removes the accumulated sludge at the bottom of the pond. Through breaking down solids, odours are also diminished or eliminated.
The nutrient-rich liquid that Effluex leaves behind is easier to use on pasture and crops. Being a liquid, it reduces the risk of clogging filters, pipes and pumping equipment. It is also easier for plants to absorb, leading to healthier growth and efficiency.
“Using the liquid allows farmers to keep their paddocks in the rotation and maximises productivity,” Dan says.
“We’re seeing more and more farmers using Effluex as the sector is looking for suitable solutions to managing effluent.”
Easier management helps farmers meet their effluent requirements, which is becoming more important with the increased pressure from regional councils towards farms.
“Compliance with environmental regulations has become increasingly stringent for dairy farmers, with a real risk of fines and potential damage to a farm’s reputation. But farmers want robust and effective solutions that offer benefits beyond compliance and that’s what makes Effluex so valuable.”
Dan explains with farms using the tool to break down their effluent there is less need for costly methods such as mechanical cleaning or installing additional infrastructure.
In the face of tightening environmental regulations, dairy farmers must be proactive in managing their effluent systems. Effluex offers a comprehensive natural solution that not only safeguards farms from compliance issues but also turns effluent into an asset that boosts productivity. It is an investment in the long-term sustainability of the farm.
For more information on how Effluex can benefit your farm, talk to your Farm Source TSR, visit microbio.co.nz or email sales@microbio.co.nz for a free farm assessment.