Manure sales to arable farming are declining, while regional supply and transport costs are creating tension in the market. Price differences and logistics remain determining factors. Read more about collection fees and manure transport.
Pressure on the demand side has since decreased. On the supply side, this is not yet the case everywhere. Particularly in Friesland and the Achterhoek, there is still an urgent need for supply. This keeps prices high in these areas.
In the northeast, all manure has been spread. To make up for shortages, manure has been brought in from further afield. Higher fuel costs make this supply expensive. Collection fees of approximately €35 per cubic meter are charged for manure from the Leeuwarden and Sneek area, whereas €20 to €25 per cubic meter is paid in the northeast.
Local contracting companies have had manure transported by ship from Twente to Appingedam. That same ship was filled with manure again in Leeuwarden, destined for the southwest. There, the vessel is reloaded with digestate for delivery to France. According to various companies, manure exports are running smoothly, although they too are hampered by high transport costs.
Despite the slower start this year, the available capacity appears to be reasonably filled. Some manure distributors were able to meet all their schedules. Other companies were unable to do so. Several report that, due to the slow start to the season, they spread approximately 10% less manure than last year.
Compensation for loss of revenue
Due to the changeable weather before Easter, not all winter wheat was fertilized. In some cases, leniency was applied to rutting or overdeveloped wheat. According to those involved, the contribution of manure more than compensates for any potential yield loss. Nevertheless, there are also fields where no manure was applied.
After Easter, conditions were favorable. A large amount of manure was spread in a short time. This was necessary because the fieldwork was progressing rapidly. In arable farming, the last plots are being fertilized. In addition, several organic farms will have manure delivered next week. Contractors are also busy with ensiling, making freed-up grass plots available again for manure.
The DCA collection fees for manure remain largely unchanged this week. A few parties are increasing their prices due to urgent local supply that is difficult to dispose of now that the season for arable farming is virtually concluded.