Are Slurry Tankers Really a Cost Effective Way to Spread Effluent?

Benefits of a Slurry Tanker

Unlimited Reach

Slurry tankers have unlimited reach across multiple paddocks and areas of operation. A slurry tanker allows you to reach a greater area without concern of toxic build up over time that could create health problems for animals. Whether you have long or irregular shaped paddocks, a slurry tanker is a great solution for managing difficult topography or reaching further away paddocks.

Nutrient Application

Another benefit to consider is the ability to effectively apply nutrients. If you are managing effluent from a feed pad or slatted floor barn where you are getting a lot of nutrient rich effluent, a slurry tanker is able to take the effluent anywhere it needs to be applied. It also serves as a great way to reach crop paddocks that are outside the dairy platform.

Other effluent management methods, such as pipes, can cause a lower nutrient value to reach crop paddocks. We recommend utilising a Nevada Rainwave Applicator, where you can reach the plant root zone effectively, instead of losing nutrients to dissipation.

Minimal Risk

Slurry tankers have the added benefit of minimal risk involved. The most you could potentially lose if an issue occurred is a tanker load of effluent. With more control, you are able to operate with better practices that ensure there is no risk to waterways or issues with ponding. While problems can occur with unattended travelling irrigators or pipes, a slurry tanker offers a straightforward approach that keeps in compliance.

Are Slurry Tankers Cost Effective?​

Slurry tankers are cost effective for a number of reasons that could benefit your farm operation efficiency.

Slurry tankers have the added benefit of minimal risk involved. The most you could potentially lose if an issue occurred is a tanker load of effluent. With more control, you are able to operate with better practices that ensure there is no risk to waterways or issues with ponding. While problems can occur with unattended travelling irrigators or pipes, a slurry tanker offers a straightforward approach that keeps in compliance.

Quick Set up

There is no installation cost with a slurry tanker and it has the assurance of getting right back to managing effluent on your farm without delay. Minimal set up means it takes less time to spread effluent and offers a task that can easily be picked up as needed.

Low Application Rate

A slurry tanker can apply effluent at a low application rate and provide proof of placement.

Low Running Cost

Slurry tankers operate at an extremely low running cost. It only requires the cost of diesel in the tractor, as well as one worker to manage the tanker. With virtually no repairs or maintenance required, slurry tankers are able to be in operation for a long time and retain their resale value if your operations ever change.

On average, slurry tankers distribute between 30,000 to 60,000 litres an hour. If you are operating over several farms, all you need is one investment for one piece of equipment that provides effluent management for all your farms, compared to having to put in infrastructure on each farm.

Call our team to find a solution for your farm​

If your farm has some irregular shaped paddocks and less than 3.5ha in size, then a tanker is potentially the most cost-effective system. If, however, they are larger than 3.5ha and regular shaped then an electric pump effluent system or drag hose system could be worth considering. Call our team to find out more about the most ‘cost-effective’ solution for your dairy farm.