The New Jersey Department of Agriculture has partnered with Rutgers University, Office of Research Analytics to develop the NJ ManureLink website. This platform aims to connect livestock farmers with composters and those seeking to sustainably utilize nutrient-rich manure. The website, njmanurelink.rutgers.edu, facilitates the connection between providers and users of manure or compost within New Jersey.
The NJDA’s Division of Agricultural and Natural Resources secured a Conservation Innovation Grant from the USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service for this project. "This valuable online resource for farmers and composters is a result of work by our own staff as well as the diligent efforts of our partners at Rutgers and other organizations," said New Jersey Assistant Secretary of Agriculture Joe Atchison III. "These partnerships allow us to serve the New Jersey agricultural community in a more effective manner."
Launched earlier this month, NJ ManureLink lists manure and compost availability by geographic location within the state. Users can sign up for notifications when their desired resources become available. The initiative offers farms with limited land capacity an opportunity to distribute their manure to those who can benefit from it.
The New Jersey Composting Council (NJCC), a project partner, will support educational components through outreach efforts including two webinars and two composting field days scheduled for July 2024. Details will be posted on njmanurelink.rutgers.edu. These events are open to livestock farmers, composters, and producers across all agricultural sectors, including urban farming. Webinars will cover topics such as composting importance, nutrient management, and integrating organic materials into farming practices. Field days will provide hands-on experience in setting up composting systems, monitoring progress, and site considerations.
