The University of Illinois Extension Service is developing a new directory that will help producers contact custom manure applicators in the state. The Illinois Custom Manure Applicators Directory is designed to be a tool to help producers and certified applicators connect.

A significant amount of livestock manure from large-scale livestock operations is custom applied in Illinois. Custom manure applicators serve a crucial role in helping apply livestock manure during what can be a narrow window of time. Soil conditions during the fall and spring may not allow a wide application time period. Therefore, some producers contract with better-equipped custom applicators to apply their livestock manure.

According to Dale Baird, University of Illinois Extension Certified Livestock Manager program staff member, many of the custom applicators operating in the state have participated in Extension’s voluntary Custom Manure Hauler training program and are well-versed in recommended practices for environmental protection and emergency response procedures. The new directory will assist producers in contacting these custom applicators.

Custom manure applicators interested in listing their business services in the directory should contact Baird at (815) 978-2844 or email [email protected].