Ohio Dairy Farmers Utilize Manure for High-Yielding Crops

Ayers family leverages manure from 650-cow herd to maintain double cropping system.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:44am

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A photorealistic studio still life featuring a glass jar filled with dark, nutrient-rich compost and a small green plant seedling emerging, symbolizing the sustainable cycle of manure, soil, and crop growth.Recycling manure from their dairy herd, the Ayers family nourishes their double cropping system for high yields.Perrysville Today

Growers from Perrysville, Ohio, the Ayers family, utilize manure from their 650-cow dairy to maintain high-yielding double crops, and feed for their herd. The practice of using a dragline on emerging corn began in 2019 due to extremely wet weather that rearranged their cover crop termination schedule.

Why it matters

As more farmers look to adopt sustainable practices, the Ayers' approach showcases how a dairy operation can leverage its own manure resources to support a successful double cropping system, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers and improving soil health.

The details

The Ayers' cover crop termination date varies each year based on factors like custom spraying schedules, weather, and herbicide programs. They typically use glyphosate and 2,4-D to terminate the cereal rye.

  • The practice of using a dragline on emerging corn began in 2019.

The players

Ayers family

Growers from Perrysville, Ohio who operate a 650-cow dairy and utilize the manure to maintain high-yielding double crops.

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The takeaway

By effectively recycling manure from their dairy herd, the Ayers family demonstrates how integrated crop-livestock systems can boost productivity and sustainability on the farm.